Sex hormone imbalance closely resembles hypothyroidism

Estrogen, progesterone and thyroid hormones are interrelated.

Many women with estrogen dominance are taking thyroid supplements which, when progesterone is introduced and estrogen dominance is corrected, can often be reduced or eliminated altogether.

Estrogen causes food calories to be stored as fat. Thyroid hormone causes fat calories to be turned into usable energy. Thyroid hormone and estrogen have opposing actions. Estrogen, therefore, may compete with thyroid hormone at the site of its receptor. In so doing, the thyroid hormone may never complete its mission, creating hypothyroid symptoms despite normal serum levels of thyroid hormone.

From the evidence we have collected, the symptoms of hypothyroidism occurring in patients with unopposed estrogen (progesterone deficiency) become less so when progesterone is added and hormone balance is achieved.

Sex hormone imbalance closely resembles those of hypothyroidism and thyroid hormone resistance. For example, a progesterone deficiency can cause fatigue, weight gain, irritability, depression, memory and concentration problems, headaches, irregular and painful mentstrual cycles, fluid retention, loss of sex drive, and cold hands and feet. These symptoms are also characteristic of hypothyroidism and thyroid hormone resistance.

Some symptoms of estrogen and testosterone deficiencies also resemble those of hypothyroidism and thyroid hormone resistance.

If lab testing is inconclusive, empirical evidence suggests it’s safe to try natural progesterone to see if your symptoms can be alleviated.

In correcting estrogen dominance, progesterone supplementation can play a major role in balancing your hormones, which can very likely include improved thyroid hormone function.