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Semin Reprod Med 2016; 34(06): 343-350
DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1593485
DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1593485
Review Article
Thyroid Autoimmunity and Reproductive Function
Natalie M. Crawford
1
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
,
Anne Z. Steiner
1
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
› Author Affiliations
Further Information
Publication History
Publication Date:
17 October 2016 (online)
Abstract
Thyroid hormones are important for normal reproductive function, and maternal thyroid dysfunction has been associated with infertility, miscarriage, preterm birth, and poor neurodevelopment in the offspring. Thyroid autoimmunity is the leading cause of thyroid dysfunction in women of reproductive age. Women with thyroid autoimmunity, even with normal thyroid function, appear to be at a higher risk for poor reproductive outcomes, including miscarriage and preterm birth. Thyroxine replacement in women with thyroid autoimmunity with or without appreciable thyroid dysfunction may improve pregnancy outcomes. Thus, identification and treatment of women with thyroid autoimmunity may optimize reproductive success.
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