What causes high thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels in women?

Generally, elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels in women may be caused by long-term mental stress, menopause, pregnancy, hypothyroidism, or Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Symptomatic management may involve general treatment and medication. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical advice and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Long-term mental stress

Prolonged mental stress may affect the regulatory function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis, leading to increased TSH secretion. This may be accompanied by symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia. It is recommended to relax and reduce mental stress through activities such as listening to music, reading, and walking.

2. Menopause

After entering menopause, declining estrogen levels in women may weaken its inhibitory effect on TSH secretion, thereby increasing TSH levels. Additionally, menopausal women often experience weight gain and decreased metabolic rate, which may also indirectly affect thyroid function. It is recommended to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, balanced diet, and sufficient sleep.

3. Pregnancy

During pregnancy, significant hormonal changes occur in a woman's body, particularly an increase in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels, which may stimulate TSH secretion, causing a temporary rise in its levels. Women may experience various physical changes during pregnancy, such as breast tenderness, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. Usually, no specific treatment is required. It is recommended to regularly monitor thyroid function to ensure thyroid hormone levels remain within the normal range.

4. Hypothyroidism

Autoimmune damage, excessive or insufficient iodine intake, and other factors can lead to hypothyroidism. In this condition, the thyroid gland cannot secrete sufficient thyroid hormones, resulting in decreased thyroid hormone levels in the blood. To maintain stable thyroid hormone levels, the pituitary gland increases TSH secretion. Symptoms may include cold intolerance, fatigue, and a dull facial expression. It is recommended to follow medical advice and take medications such as thyroid tablets, alfacalcidol soft capsules, and liothyronine sodium tablets.

5. Hashimoto's Thyroiditis

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism and consequently elevated TSH levels. Symptoms may include goiter, thyroid pain, and increased gland firmness. It is recommended to follow medical advice and take medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, propylthiouracil tablets, and prednisone acetate tablets to improve thyroid function and reduce TSH levels.

Women are advised to engage in moderate daily exercise, such as jogging, swimming, or cycling, to promote blood circulation, enhance physical fitness, and reduce the risk of illness.