Thyropause: When Menopause and Hypothyroidism Overlap

[@sagek7949]

My mom experienced this, hypothyroidism during menopause, I feel so sorry for her 😢

[@hillarylively1755]

You are the first physician I have seen that approaches these issues in this logical “get to the root of the problem” way. I only recently discovered my suspicions about my thyroid levels being off during the menopause transition were even a valid possibility. This was after a great deal of suffering, sadly. I have never been so low on energy and up until recently I even woke every morning at 4:00am to go weight train before teaching all day. Once this “shift” began it was like a steam roller that took over and knocked me down….it has been a huge struggle to feel completely exhausted, even after a full night of sleep. I am hoping I can feel more like my old self soon and get back to lifting weights. Thank you for showing me I may be on the right track with testing my thyroid levels!

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

Hooray! I'm so glad you found the information useful. Be sure to check out my video on Breaking Menopause Myths for more ideas and strategies. Here's the link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pYbSiJuYjpqobpI

[@allisondougherty7937]

I wish that my gp was like you. I am so frustrated! I am in Australia and currently on hrt estrogel and mirena. I have low ferritin 37, significant hair fall, terrible fatigue, puffy eyes, etc.

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

That does sound frustrating!

[@allisondougherty7937]

Hi Dr. Kate😊 Please help!? I have been struggling with menopause for 2 years now. I am on hrt (estrogel & mirena) my gp refuses to test me further for thyroid dysfunction as my tsh & free t4 tests were "normal ". I am in Australia so I have found a private company to do the blood tests but I'm not sure what to order 😢 I have found one test which includes the following- free&total testosterone E2 (oestradiol) SHBG prolactin progesterone fsh/lh dheas cortisol insulin tsh/ft3/ft4. That will cost me $159 and I am on a disability pension but I need to know what is wrong with me! I'm so fatigued all the time, muscle soreness and stressed out, headaches, hair loss etc. Would I need to order any other tests which aren't included in the list above?

[@chelelee6321]

I'm a 43yo woman. I stopped menstruating in August 2023 although most of my periods were regular until that point. In December, when my period didn't return, even after vitamin C, I went to gynecologist. They checked my FSH and it was 90 (for reference fsh of 30 is high and signifies a woman is post menopausal). Because that was so very high, I was prescribed Prempro HRT. Then, January 2024 was follow up with my primary care doc. I asked that they take thyroid labs because I felt worse instead of better. My TSH was 48!! Severe hypo. I started levothyroxine immediately but my pharmacy warned me that prempro with levothyroxine could dramatically decrease the amount of thyroid hormone my body would make. I stopped the prempro and have been on levothyroxine almost 3 weeks. It's a little better every day. Just wanted to share my experience as I can't be the only one. Maybe my testimony can help others. Don't just attribute all the symptoms to menopause, as it could also be thyroid which is just made worse (in some circumstances) by starting HRT without further testing. I think it should be routine for providers to also check thyroid when a woman comes in experiencing perimenopausal or menopausal symptoms. For most of us, it has to be something that's really bothering us or we wouldn't be going anyway. Lol.

[@YamaraLoves]

​@@allisondougherty7937 Just take "Sea Kelp"

[@aimeeannvasile4482]

Wow I feel like I ran across this at the right time!

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

I'm glad my video was helpful for you!

[@copywriter7]

This makes so much sense!! Thanks for explaining it clearly and concisely :)

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

Yay! So glad it was useful - and thanks for watching/subscribing/sharing!!!

[@ACAC-ll5jh]

This happened to me...perimenopause, hashimotos and menopause ...mixed in with stress, new job abd Covid years

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

It's a rough combo for sure!

[@amandaj7370]

Wow. I’m 51- dx Hashi’s. This hits home. Maybe I need my hormones done again. 😬

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

Thanks for watching - If I were you, I'd consider the DUTCH test for comprehensive hormone assessment - you can order one via my website here: www.drkateld.com/DUTCH-info

[@amandaj7370]

@@DrKateLyzengaDean I’ll look into it. Been skinnnny my whole life and just gained 30lbs. Hair falling out. I’m hurting everywhere. Even in my feet. Been a bit scared. My grandma died of schlerderma (sp) young… 😞 I’ll check out your site.

[@kgriess68]

I’m 55 and in menopause as of a couple of months ago. Recent labs showed my thyroid is a little off - hypo. My sister had the same issue and they treated her with HRT before thyroid to see if that would help her thyroid work better and 6 months later, her thyroid numbers were in the normal range. My doctor wants me to treat my thyroid before trying HRT. I have the added issue of low aldosterone/adrenal issues (although my gyne thinks my adrenals are fine). I don’t know how to get better or what to treat first, but I thought it was interesting how the approach was different on the thyroid between my sister and me. She lives in a different state.

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

Definitely an example of how interconnected these systems are! If it were me, I'd be treating both issues - based on comprehensive data (like a complete thyroid panel and DUTCH test). But as long as you're thinking about both - and their connection - I think you're on the right track!

[@suejaneuk1681]

I am on HRT patches and Utrogestan but I am having real problems with losing weight, even though I am following a healthy low Carbohydrates, sugar and fat diet. My mum and sister are on the same diet and have lost a lot of weight. I am due a blood test in 3 weeks, I have been borderline for 15yrs. I am tired, depressed and have recently had severe groin pain.

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

I have some other videos on weight loss that you might find helpful! Check out my channel library!

[@wendyking249]

cut the bread out also pasta any thing with flour remove from your diet include virgin coconut oil flax seeds sea moss and loads of sleep

[@pernille1914]

Thanks a lot for this video - greate content!

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

You're welcome! I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@wendyking249]

hi i have been dealing with my thyroid for over 20 years i had two episodes where i had hyperthyroidisum and had to go on meds to lower my heart rate after the second time i was given radioactive iodine and told to take tyroxine now at 51 menopause has joined the party its horrid eating certain foods like bread is an issue acid reflux,hot flashes,night sweats,insomnia not taste in mouth constipation the list goes on i just wanted to share it feels like your alone but your not dont give up 😀😀

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

You're not alone! 🧡

[@wendyking249]

i know but when the issues begin to overwhelm you and no one around seems to understand you it feels as if you are abandoned so thanks for that reminder stay safe and keep up the good work encouraging us in such pain

[@bricksanimated]

The deep dive tutorial link is not working. Can You please 🙏🏽 send the link.

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

Sorry about that! Here you go - www.drkateld.com/hormone-balance-deep-dive-info-page

[@Yori81]

do you do consultation if im overseas, Canada?

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

Yep! I do have clients in Canada! Here's some information about applying to work with me: bit.ly/drkate1on1

[@americarocks3175]

Hello Dr. Kate: can you please elaborate on the difference in tests that collect blood (like typical Quest/Labcorp) vs. finger prick (like the one on your site)? What is the reason for blood collection in such quantity if the simple prick is sufficient? Do the labs run it more times? Is there a larger deviation in test results with the prick? Thank you in advance for your reply!

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

Both tests are accurate - one is just an at-home option vs. requiring a phlebotomist.

[@debramadden889]

Can wild ym cream help balance out our hormones.. I have had hysterectomoty and i am 62...

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

Depends on how your hormones are out of balance! Unfortunately there’s no one-size-fits-all. That’s why I recommend functional testing 👍🏼

[@margaretsledziewski]

when on a thyroid replacement and a need for estrogen (low levels) what types of estrogen will impact thyroid levels and what dose increase is required to use patches or vagianl products? How to do the half life reduction in a thyroid dose as well please.

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

I typically suggest that my clients use some form of transdermal estradiol if they're looking for HRT - dose depends on form and individual, so they work with their PCP to get that dialed in.

[@ReneeOfTheFae]

I'm a Hashimoto chick beginning my journey into perimenopause. At least I'm already used to most of the menopausal symptoms because there are more in common with hypothyroidism than just those three she mentions. I have to say, though, it's been lovely not being cold for a year straight! I'm not fighting what my body is doing, and I'm not complaining about it. Instead, I'm going to lean into the symptoms, and just do what I can to make my life and myself healthier as we go along together. I'm not interested in pumping more hormones into my body that it doesn't need anymore (as opposed to the thyroid meds that I do need.) I'm happily looking forward to my Crone Stage of life (have been since I was kid, actually.) Good luck, All!

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

Glad you've found a philosophy that works for you - just want to note that for many women, the "Crone Stage" of life can also include debilitating conditions like osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and dementia - all of which can be managed and even prevented by maintaining healthy hormone levels in perimenopause and menopause.

[@MaryLove-d5w]

What about post menopausal thyroid problems. I’m 6 years post menopausal and now I’ve got a thyroid nodule. I’m 55 but went through menopausal at 49 due to chemotherapy. I’d love to know why I’ve got this problem now. My weight hasn’t changed just very tired and mood up and down.

[@MaryLove-d5w]

I don’t have any hair loss, just so so tired.

[@MaryLove-d5w]

My thyroid function is normal.

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

I'd challenge the completeness and optimal ranges of your thyroid labs, given the presence of a nodule. I'd also wager that, given your history with chemo, you need some detox support. Sub-optimal micronutrients or low testosterone could also be in play! Lots of things to dig more deeply into.

[@marymiah7164]

@@DrKateLyzengaDean thanks for the reply. 👍I’m definitely going back to the doctor for more test. I’m sure we’ll get to the bottom of it. It’s literally only been two months since I found the nodule, which is about a grape sized lump.

[@TheChiGirl1]

I have hashimotos and I’m pretty sure I’m entering perimenopause. I’m a hot mess and idk what to do. My doctor has had me on 30 mg of armor for years and never runs a complete thyroid panel. He just ran my TSH 0.94 and free t4 1.01 ugh . My periods are messed up, anxiety , night sweats, hot flashes, depression, dry skin, dizziness, headaches, painful sex, nausea, dry vagina , brain fog , memory issues.

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

Oh, man - I'm sorry you're going through this! So rough to not have a supportive practitioner - especially during perimenopause. You might find my hormone deep dive tutorial helpful! Here's more info about it: www.drkateld.com/hormone-balance-deep-dive-info-page

[@DVelez-wz3fe]

You need a new doctor, maybe an endocrinologist

[@alyssamiller9329]

I'm 42 and definitely in perimenopause. Can anyone explain why after I started HRT (estradiol 0.05 patch) and progesterone 100 mg nightly... My thyroid labs numbers all DECREASED pretty substantially within 4 months? Help, anyone please!!!! I'm so confused trying to do the research on this.

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

Hormones are super complex and confusing! Sorry you're struggling - I'd be happy to help you untangle everything via a one-on-one consultation. Here's some more info about working with me: bit.ly/drkate1on1

[@alyssamiller9329]

@@DrKateLyzengaDean thank you!!!!

[@gillianschmidt6373]

Will HRT assist with hypothyroidism if you're in perimenopause or full menopause.

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

It can!

[@jantrevino9345]

I think that's what happened to me.

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

It happens to a lot of people, I think! Hang in there!

[@JLU-wm8ir]

i went though menopause and done with all my periods by age 49 no more periods. have had thyroid problems since i was a teen but not treated until age 57.

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

I'm so sorry to hear that - it's a shame you weren't treated sooner!

[@Susieq26754]

I have gone through 5 doctors in 12 years. None of them helped me. I had to go out of state to remove a adenoma on my parathyroid. I had kidney stones. I still can't get my low T3 taken care of. If you are low in T3, it can make estrogen go up and you become estrogen dominant. You can't just slap a one size fits all, estradiol patch on and everything is fine. You have good advice about vitamins and nutrition but that won't balance your hormones. If your low in t3 you are going to feel like crap. Sorry but it's true.

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

Completely agree that low T3 can impact symptoms! I would never suggest a one-size-fits-all approach - especially to hormones like estradiol!

[@mariareyes2592]

I have the test from my doctor she is not an endocrinologist how can I make an appointment with uoi

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

Hi there! You can learn more about working with me and submit a short application by clicking here: bit.ly/drkate1on1

[@wiseowl1580]

Omg. So glad I found you. I have a Dr. Appt in 2 hours. I will be back. 🌞🫶

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

I'm glad you found my video helpful! Good luck with your doctor's visit!

[@allisondougherty7937]

Hi Dr. Kate😊 Please help!? I have been struggling with menopause for 2 years now. I am on hrt (estrogel & mirena) my gp refuses to test me further for thyroid dysfunction as my tsh & free t4 tests were "normal ". I am in Australia so I have found a private company to do the blood tests but I'm not sure what to order 😢 I have found one test which includes the following- free&total testosterone E2 (oestradiol) SHBG prolactin progesterone fsh/lh dheas cortisol insulin tsh/ft3/ft4. That will cost me $159 and I am on a disability pension but I need to know what is wrong with me! I'm so fatigued all the time, muscle soreness and stressed out, headaches, hair loss etc. Would I need to order any other tests which aren't included in the list above? Please please help me 😢​@DrKateLyzengaDean

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

Hi, Allison! So sorry you're struggling, and that your gp is being unhelpful. Blood testing can be helpful for some things (like insulin, TSH/Ft3/Ft4/TPO, and SHBG) but for most hormone testing (sex hormones and adrenal hormones), I much prefer timed urine testing via the DUTCH test. Blood testing will tell you very little about progesterone if you're on mirena, same with estrogen on estrogel. I am able to ship the DUTCH test to my international clients, so if you're done DIY-ing and need more individualized help, you're welcome to apply for a consultation! Here's some more info: bit.ly/drkate1on1

[@allisondougherty7937]

Hi Dr Kate, thank you so much for responding to my question, I really do appreciate your help. I understand what you are saying in regards to hormone testing, that makes sense! I didn't think that it would be practical to do a test/consultation with you. Technology is definitely making those impracticalities a thing of the past then! I would still like to get these blood tests done (thyroid) however there are so many different options. Could you please tell me which of the following options would be helpful in excluding thyroid disease? The tests are OPTION 1 - TSH,FT3, FT4, TGAB, TPO OPTION 2 - TSH, FT3, FT4, TGAB, TPO, REV T3, TSI OPTION 3 - TSH, FT3, FT4, REVT3. I am sick of dyi doctoring, however I have had little choice as all of the GP's I have seen refuse to do further thyroid investigation. They all just do the shrug thing and say "that's menopause ".😢

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

@@allisondougherty7937 Hi, again, Allison! Without knowing all the details, I suppose I would choose option 1 because you can find the optimal ranges for these labs in my hair loss checklist - it would give you something to compare them to, at least. Here's the checklist signup: www.drkateld.com/free-hair-re-growth-checklist-signup

[@allisondougherty7937]

@DrKateLyzengaDean Hello Dr Kate ⚘️🌼😁 Thank you so much for responding to my question, I really do appreciate it! I just feel so stuck. As I mentioned before, I live in Australia, so I have been trying to get treatment here. I keep getting frustrated with their lack of knowledge/understanding of my symptoms. I would love to have a consultation with you in the future. However, I am unsure how that would work? Is that even possible? Also, in regards to the DUTCH test, how would that work? Would I order the test from you? Would it be sent from your country to mine and back again? 🤔 If so, wouldn't that be impractical in both time and money? I apologise for all of the questions 😔 😕

[@DrKateLyzengaDean]

Probably best to continue this conversation out of the comments - feel free to shoot me an email at [e-mail] with your specific questions and we'll see what we can do! 👍🏼