The thyroid gland may be small, but it plays a major role in women’s health—affecting everything from metabolism and energy to mood, weight, and menstrual regularity. In the summer, heat intolerance and fatigue can sometimes mask the signs of a thyroid disorder. That’s why it’s important to know the symptoms and get tested when something feels off. At A Woman’s Place in Naples, FL, we help women identify and manage thyroid conditions with expert, compassionate care.
What Does the Thyroid Do?
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck that produces hormones (T3 and T4) that regulate the body’s metabolism. These hormones affect heart rate, temperature, digestion, and even menstrual cycles. When the thyroid is overactive or underactive, symptoms can appear subtly at first—but often escalate without treatment.
Common Thyroid Disorders in Women
- Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid):
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Constipation
- Feeling cold
- Depression
- Irregular or heavy periods
- Dry skin and hair thinning
- Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid):
- Weight loss
- Rapid heartbeat
- Anxiety or irritability
- Insomnia
- Heat intolerance
- Light or absent periods
- Hair loss or fine hair
Women are far more likely than men to develop thyroid disease, particularly during periods of hormonal fluctuation such as pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause.
How Summer Can Worsen Thyroid Symptoms
- Heat intolerance: Women with hyperthyroidism may find summer weather especially difficult to tolerate.
- Fatigue and dehydration: Hypothyroid fatigue may feel worse when compounded by heat exhaustion.
- Stress: Summer travel and disrupted routines can elevate cortisol, which may further suppress thyroid function.
How Thyroid Health Affects Fertility and Menstrual Cycles
Thyroid disorders can impact reproductive health in multiple ways:
- Irregular cycles: Both hypo- and hyperthyroidism can cause missed or erratic periods.
- Ovulation issues: An underactive thyroid can disrupt ovulation and make it harder to conceive.
- Pregnancy risks: Untreated thyroid problems can increase the risk of miscarriage or complications.
When to Get Your Thyroid Checked
You should ask your doctor about a thyroid screening if you notice:
- Sudden weight changes
- Persistent fatigue or depression
- Changes in heart rate or body temperature
- Irregular periods or fertility issues
- Family history of thyroid disease or autoimmune conditions
A simple blood test (TSH, T3, and T4 levels) can assess thyroid function and help guide treatment.
Supporting Your Thyroid Health
- Eat a balanced diet rich in selenium, zinc, and iodine (but don’t over-supplement)
- Manage stress with mindfulness or gentle movement
- Get regular sleep and stay hydrated
- Follow up with your doctor for regular monitoring if you’ve been diagnosed
We’re Here to Help
At A Woman’s Place in Naples, FL, we understand how thyroid issues can affect your quality of life. Whether you’re struggling with fatigue, mood swings, or reproductive concerns, our providers are here to help you get answers and feel better.
Schedule a thyroid evaluation or wellness check today.
Further Reading
The thyroid gland may be small, but it plays a major role in women’s health—affecting everything from metabolism and energy to mood, weight, and menstrual regularity. In the summer, heat intolerance and fatigue can sometimes mask the signs of a thyroid disorder. That’s why it’s important to know the symptoms and get tested when something feels off. At A Woman’s Place in Naples, FL, we help women identify and manage thyroid conditions with expert, compassionate care.
What Does the Thyroid Do?
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck that produces hormones (T3 and T4) that regulate the body’s metabolism. These hormones affect heart rate, temperature, digestion, and even menstrual cycles. When the thyroid is overactive or underactive, symptoms can appear subtly at first—but often escalate without treatment.
Common Thyroid Disorders in Women
- Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid):
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Constipation
- Feeling cold
- Depression
- Irregular or heavy periods
- Dry skin and hair thinning
- Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid):
- Weight loss
- Rapid heartbeat
- Anxiety or irritability
- Insomnia
- Heat intolerance
- Light or absent periods
- Hair loss or fine hair
Women are far more likely than men to develop thyroid disease, particularly during periods of hormonal fluctuation such as pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause.
How Summer Can Worsen Thyroid Symptoms
- Heat intolerance: Women with hyperthyroidism may find summer weather especially difficult to tolerate.
- Fatigue and dehydration: Hypothyroid fatigue may feel worse when compounded by heat exhaustion.
- Stress: Summer travel and disrupted routines can elevate cortisol, which may further suppress thyroid function.
How Thyroid Health Affects Fertility and Menstrual Cycles
Thyroid disorders can impact reproductive health in multiple ways:
- Irregular cycles: Both hypo- and hyperthyroidism can cause missed or erratic periods.
- Ovulation issues: An underactive thyroid can disrupt ovulation and make it harder to conceive.
- Pregnancy risks: Untreated thyroid problems can increase the risk of miscarriage or complications.
When to Get Your Thyroid Checked
You should ask your doctor about a thyroid screening if you notice:
- Sudden weight changes
- Persistent fatigue or depression
- Changes in heart rate or body temperature
- Irregular periods or fertility issues
- Family history of thyroid disease or autoimmune conditions
A simple blood test (TSH, T3, and T4 levels) can assess thyroid function and help guide treatment.
Supporting Your Thyroid Health
- Eat a balanced diet rich in selenium, zinc, and iodine (but don’t over-supplement)
- Manage stress with mindfulness or gentle movement
- Get regular sleep and stay hydrated
- Follow up with your doctor for regular monitoring if you’ve been diagnosed
We’re Here to Help
At A Woman’s Place in Naples, FL, we understand how thyroid issues can affect your quality of life. Whether you’re struggling with fatigue, mood swings, or reproductive concerns, our providers are here to help you get answers and feel better.
Schedule a thyroid evaluation or wellness check today.
