In India, thyroid disorders affect nearly 1 in 10 people — and women are 5 to 8 times more likely to develop them than men. Yet many women in Chandigarh live with thyroid problems for years without knowing it, because the early signs are easy to dismiss as stress, ageing, or hormonal changes.
This guide covers the most common thyroid problems in women, their early warning signs, and exactly which tests you need to get the right diagnosis.
What Does the Thyroid Gland Do?
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in your neck. It produces hormones (T3 and T4) that control your body’s metabolism — how fast your heart beats, how quickly you burn calories, your mood, your menstrual cycle, and even your hair growth. When this gland is overactive or underactive, everything feels off.
The Two Most Common Thyroid Problems in Women
1. Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
This is the most common thyroid disorder in women. The thyroid does not produce enough hormones, which slows down body functions. Early signs include:
- Unexplained weight gain even without eating more
- Constant tiredness and fatigue, even after sleeping well
- Feeling cold when others around you are comfortable
- Dry skin, brittle nails, and thinning hair
- Puffy face, especially around the eyes in the morning
- Brain fog — difficulty concentrating or remembering things
- Slow or irregular periods
- Constipation
- Low mood or depression
2. Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
This happens when the thyroid produces too much hormone, speeding up body functions. Signs include:
- Unexplained weight loss despite eating normally
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
- Feeling hot, sweating more than usual
- Nervousness, anxiety, or irritability
- Trembling hands
- Frequent or loose stools
- Difficulty sleeping
- Lighter or missed periods
- Bulging eyes (in Graves’ disease, the most common cause)
Other Thyroid Conditions That Affect Women
- Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: An autoimmune condition that is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in women. The immune system attacks the thyroid gland.
- Thyroid nodules: Lumps or growths in the thyroid. Most are benign, but some need investigation.
- Thyroid during pregnancy: Thyroid problems are common during and after pregnancy. Postpartum thyroiditis affects about 5% of women after delivery.
- PCOS and thyroid: Women with PCOS have a higher risk of thyroid disorders. If you have PCOS, regular thyroid testing is important.
Why Women Ignore Thyroid Symptoms
Thyroid symptoms are often subtle and overlap with other common conditions. Fatigue gets blamed on a busy lifestyle. Weight gain is blamed on diet. Mood changes are dismissed as PMS. This is why thyroid disorders are among the most underdiagnosed conditions in women.
According to the American Thyroid Association, more than 60% of people with thyroid disease are unaware they have it.
Which Thyroid Tests Should Women Get?
If you have any of the symptoms above, or a family history of thyroid disease, ask your doctor about these tests:
- TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone): This is the most important screening test. High TSH means hypothyroidism; low TSH means hyperthyroidism.
- Free T3 and Free T4: These measure the actual thyroid hormones in your blood. Ordered along with TSH for a complete picture.
- Anti-TPO Antibodies: Helps diagnose Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, the most common cause of underactive thyroid in women.
- Anti-TG Antibodies: Another autoimmune marker, used when Hashimoto’s is suspected.
- TSH Receptor Antibodies (TRAb): Used when Graves’ disease is suspected.
When Should Women Get a Thyroid Test?
You should get your thyroid tested if you have any of the symptoms listed above for more than 4–6 weeks, have a family history of thyroid disease, are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, have recently delivered a baby, have irregular periods or fertility problems, have been diagnosed with PCOS or diabetes, or are above 35 years of age.
Thyroid Testing at Altus Lab, Chandigarh
At Altus Lab Chandigarh, we offer a full range of thyroid tests including TSH, Free T3, Free T4, and thyroid antibody panels. Our tests are processed in our NABL-accredited laboratory for accurate and reliable results.
You can visit us or book a home sample collection in Chandigarh — our trained phlebotomist will come to your home. Reports are delivered digitally within 24 hours. You can also read more about fever tests during monsoon season on our blog.
FAQs: Thyroid Problems in Women
Is fasting required for a thyroid test?
No, fasting is not required for a TSH or thyroid function test. You can get tested at any time of day.
Can thyroid problems cause weight gain?
Yes. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is a common cause of unexplained weight gain in women. Once the condition is diagnosed and treated, weight may normalise with proper medication and lifestyle changes.
How often should women get a thyroid test?
Women above 35 are advised to get a TSH test every 5 years as a routine check. Women with risk factors (family history, PCOS, autoimmune conditions) should test at least once a year.
Do not ignore the signs your body is giving you. A simple blood test can reveal whether your thyroid is functioning well. Book your thyroid test at Altus Lab Chandigarh today and take the first step towards better health.