Publication:

Thyroid dysfunction association with abnormal uterine bleeding

Background Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is one of the most frequent gynaecological complaints among women of reproductive age. Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating menstrual physiology and their imbalance may lead to a spectrum of menstrual disorders ranging from Infrequent menses to Prolonged bleeding. To detect and evaluate thyroid functional abnormalities in women with AUB and to analyse different patterns of menstrual abnormalities associated with thyroid   dysfunction across different age groups.

Methods This was a cross-sectional observational study conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, SSG hospital, Vadodara. A total of 370 women aged 15–49 years presenting with AUB were included fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Detailed history, clinical examination and relevant investigations including thyroid function tests were performed. Patients were classified based on the bleeding patterns, PALM-COEIN system and thyroid status.

Results Out of the total patients studied, 25.39% were found to have thyroid dysfunction, with hypothyroidism being the most common type. Thyroid abnormalities were more frequently seen in women aged 31–40 years. Multiparity was more common in hypothyroid AUB cases. Structural causes like fibroids and adenomyosis were more prevalent among euthyroid women, while functional bleeding patterns were common in thyroid dysfunction.

Conclusions Thyroid dysfunction, especially hypothyroidism, is significantly associated with AUB, particularly in the 31–40 age group. Routine screening of thyroid function in AUB patients is recommended to enable early diagnosis and reduce the need for invasive procedures.