Hypothyroidism

An underactive thyroid disrupts hormones, energy, and your menstrual cycle.

Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. It is significantly more common in women than men and frequently goes undiagnosed because its symptoms — fatigue, weight gain, brain fog, mood changes, and irregular periods — overlap with many other hormonal conditions including perimenopause and PCOS.

How Dawn Phase helps with Hypothyroidism

Cycle disruption

Thyroid hormone is closely linked to reproductive hormones. Hypothyroidism can cause irregular periods, heavier periods, or in some cases absent periods. Many women get a PCOS or perimenopause diagnosis before thyroid function is tested.

Fatigue and low energy

Persistent fatigue that does not improve with rest is one of the most common hypothyroidism symptoms. It is different from typical tiredness — it often feels like a physical heaviness. Tracking energy daily helps distinguish thyroid fatigue from cycle-phase fatigue.

Weight gain and difficulty losing weight

A slowed metabolism from low thyroid hormone makes weight gain easy and weight loss very difficult, regardless of diet or exercise. This is a metabolic issue, not a lifestyle one.

Brain fog and memory issues

Difficulty concentrating, slow thinking, and memory problems are common in hypothyroidism. These symptoms overlap significantly with perimenopause brain fog, which is why thyroid testing is important.

Cold intolerance and hair loss

Feeling cold when others are comfortable, cold hands and feet, and hair thinning or loss are classic hypothyroidism signs. Hair loss in hypothyroidism typically affects the whole scalp and sometimes the outer third of the eyebrows.

Medical disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Dawn Phase is not a medical device. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional with questions about your health.

Common Hypothyroidism symptoms to track

Frequently asked questions

How is hypothyroidism diagnosed?

A simple blood test measuring TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) is the standard first test. If TSH is elevated, T4 is also measured. Ask your doctor specifically for thyroid testing — it is not always included in a standard blood panel.

Can hypothyroidism be mistaken for perimenopause?

Yes, frequently. Fatigue, weight gain, brain fog, mood changes, and irregular periods occur in both. Women in their 40s are often told their symptoms are perimenopause before thyroid function is checked. Always request a thyroid test.

Is hypothyroidism treatable?

Yes. Hypothyroidism is typically treated with levothyroxine, a synthetic thyroid hormone taken daily. Most people feel significantly better once their levels are optimised.

Does hypothyroidism affect fertility?

Yes. Thyroid hormone is essential for ovulation and a healthy pregnancy. Undiagnosed or undertreated hypothyroidism is associated with difficulty conceiving and increased miscarriage risk. Thyroid testing is recommended before trying to conceive.

Further reading

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This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.