Your endocrine system produces hormones that regulate growth and development, reproduction, and metabolic processes, such as blood sugar regulation. Imbalances and absence of key hormones can even affect fertility. In this blog, we will learn which treatment options may correct this health problem.
Infertility May Be Linked to Endocrine Disorders
Whether in males or females, the reproductive system is complex–involving the testes or ovaries as the primary producers of sex hormones and reproductive cells – sperm and eggs. However, other endocrine organs also produce hormones, which drive sexual function, libido and the ability to conceive. If something is awry with these organs or the amount or quality of hormones produced and circulated in the body is off balance, fertility problems can result.
So, if a couple cannot conceive a child within about one year of regular sexual activity, something likely is amiss in either or both partners. Male infertility typically is a structural or hormonal defect in about 40 percent of couples who do not achieve pregnancy naturally.
Examples of Endocrine Disorder That Cause Infertility
Aside from structural problems, such as varicose veins in a man’s scrotum, or blocked fallopian tubes in a woman, hormone and endocrine gland problems can be detected and treated to improve fertility and the chances of conceiving. These endocrine issues include:
- Low testosterone
- Imbalances in luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) produced by the pituitary gland, the tiny master endocrine gland located in the brain
- Problems with the hypothalamus, the gland which regulates hormones in conjunction with the nervous system
- Tumors of the pituitary gland
- Hypothyroidism, or underproduction of T3 and T4 hormones in the thyroid gland
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Low estrogen and progesterone levels
- Cushing’s syndrome, which involves high levels of cortisol produced by the adrenal glands
Particularly in women, poor diet, weight issues (either obesity or low body weight), and stress can deregulate endocrine gland production. Hypothyroidism, detectable by a simple blood test, can impact LH and FSH production, thus suppressing monthly ovulation, the release of a viable egg from an ovary.
Treatment Options for Endocrine-Related Infertility
There are several well-researched and documented treatment options that can correct endocrine-related infertility. Most involve correction of key hormones that the body is producing in excess or in insufficient amounts.
For instance, many infertile women benefit from an oral or injected medication called Clomiphene, which stimulates the ovaries to release eggs. Typically, it is paired with injections of LH and FSH for maximum benefit. For men with low-T levels, testosterone may be administered via pill, injection, pellets, and more.
Additionally, tumors and dysfunction of the hypothalamus or pituitary gland can be addressed in a number of ways, including surgery, medication, and radiation. Often, people who are experiencing infertility related to these endocrine glands also have other systemic issues, such as under or over development of the skeletal system, chronic fatigue, mental health issues, and more.
A consultation with an experienced endocrinologist who can provide the right imaging and blood tests to determine the exact reasons for symptoms is vitally important. Individualized and adjustable treatment, ongoing support, and, ultimately, the correction of infertility can result for a lot of patients.
Primary Care and Endocrinology in Manatee and Sarasota Counties
At Intercoastal Medical Group, our internal medicine doctors deliver outstanding primary healthcare for people of all ages. If they suspect endocrine system problems, such as hypothyroidism or other hormone deficiencies leading to infertility, patients can be referred to one of our four board-certified endocrinologists for evaluation and treatment.
We serve Floridians in 10 state-of-the-art facilities. Our caring team encourages you to contact us for an office visit if you need a new provider or wish to discuss symptoms or concerns with your PCP or endocrinologist.
To book an appointment with an endocrine specialist, call our Beneva Professional Center at (941) 379-1777 or Lakewood Ranch II at (941) 538-0077. Or, you may request a visit online.
