Hypothyroid

Content written by Richard Sadovsky, MD

Greater appreciation for the role of the thyroid gland on sexual health has been realized in the last several years. As such, most doctors and patients are unaware of the possibility that sexual problems can be the result of abnormal thyroid states and that treatment of the thyroid condition would restore the sexual function without any need for traditional treatments such as PDE5 inhibitors

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid does not produce sufficient thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormones are important and act to maintain fat and carbohydrate metabolism, control body temperature, and regulate protein production. Signs and symptoms of low thyroid hormone are varied and include: increased sensitivity to cold, constipation, pale and dry skin, unexplained weight gain, muscle aches, tenderness and stiffness, muscle weakness, and/or depression.

Sexual problems can be the result of low thyroid states. Treatment of the thyroid condition could restore sexual function without any need for traditional treatments such as PDE5 inhibitors.

Classic symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weakness, weight gain or increased difficulty losing weight, dry, coarse hair, rough, dry, pale skin, hair loss, intolerance to cold, muscle aches and cramps, constipation, irritability, memory loss, depression and sexual dysfunction. These are all fairly non-specific; it is obvious why the diagnosis of hypothyroidism is often not considered when diagnosing sexual dysfunction.

The sexual complaints in hypothyroidism included not only erectile dysfunction, but lack of sexual interest and muted orgasm, so should be considered as a diagnostic possibility in men who present with multiple kinds of sexual problems.

The critical laboratory test at screening is thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Should there be consideration for hypothyroidism, more sophisticated tests are indicated. Efforts should be made to understand the cause of the hypothyroidism.