The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland that sits at the base of the neck, underneath the Adam's apple. The main role of the thyroid is to control the body's metabolism, which includes how fast energy is burned and how fast the heart beats. The thyroid regulates metabolism by secreting two hormones, called T3 and T4, which circulate in the bloodstream throughout the body. Although both men and women can develop thyroid problems, women are five to eight times as likely as men, and women can experience some symptoms that are specific to women, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Too Little Energy
If the thyroid does not produce enough hormones, the body's metabolism will slow down, resulting in a condition called hypothyroidism, explains the Cleveland Clinic. Women with hypothyroidism often experience fatigue, weakness, depression and memory loss, because the body is not mobilizing enough energy. Muscles may ache or cramp frequently, and constipation may develop. Course, dry hair; hair loss and pale, rough, dry skin are also symptoms of hypothyroidism. Because the metabolism has slowed down, a woman may gain weight and be unable to tolerate cold temperatures. Her sex drive may also decrease.
Too Much Energy
In contrast to hypothyroidism, the thyroid may produce too much hormone and cause the metabolism to increase, which is called hyperthyroidism, WomensHealth.gov reports. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include irritability, anxiety, trouble sleeping and a rapid or irregular heart beat. Because the metabolism is in overdrive, women with hyperthyroidism may lose weight, even while eating more food than usual. More frequent bowel movements may result. The hands and other muscles may tremble or spasm frequently, which can lead to muscle weakness. The increased metabolism may also cause excessive sweating and an inability to tolerate warm temperatures.
Effects on Sexual Maturation
Thyroid problems that occur in young girls can alter the onset of puberty. Hyperthyroidism that occurs soon after puberty has begun can cause the first menstrual period to happen early, sometimes before the age of nine, which is known as precocious puberty. However, if hyperthyroidism occurs early in childhood, before puberty has begun, the first menstrual period is often delayed. If hyperthyroidism occurs later in life, it can cause menstrual periods to become very infrequent and light, sometimes stopping completely. In contrast, hypothyroidism that occurs late in life may cause menstrual periods to become very heavy and happen more frequently. In some cause, the bleeding may become so severe that anemia results, according to New York Thyroid Center.
