A New Approach to Hashimotos and Fertility
If you're living with Hashimoto's and trying to conceive, you already know how challenging it can be. For many women, the fatigue, weight gain, and hormonal imbalances often feel like they are working against you. But recent research suggests there might be a new approach that could not only improve your thyroid health but also enhance your chances of getting pregnant.
Let's explore the latest study that combined photobiomodulation therapy (PBM) with supplements to see how this innovative approach could make a difference for women like you.
The Study at a Glance
This study explored the efficacy of combining PBM therapy with supplements versus using supplements alone in women with Hashimoto's thyroiditis. For those unfamiliar, Hashimoto's is an autoimmune condition where your immune system mistakenly attacks your thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism and a cascade of symptoms that can interfere with fertility.
Researchers recruited 74 women aged between 20 and 50 years, all diagnosed with Hashimoto's. The participants were divided into two groups: one received PBM therapy along with supplements, and the other received only supplements. The study ran over six months, with multiple follow-ups to track progress.
What Was the Protocol?
The PBM therapy used in this study involved a specific protocol designed to target the thyroid gland directly:
Wavelength: 820 nm
Power Output: 200 mW
Treatment Duration: 20 seconds per point
Fluence: 32 J/cm² per point
Frequency: Twice a week for three weeks
Protocol for PBM + supplement.
In addition to PBM, both groups were given supplements. All participants with low vitamin D levels (defined as serum levels below 40 ng/dL) received appropriate supplementation to bring their levels up to the normal range. Additionally, everyone took a daily dose of 100 µg of selenium, which is known to support thyroid function. Each participant was given a patient advice leaflet, asking to avoid food with gluten and sugar.
The Results – What You Need to Know
The outcomes of this study are particularly exciting if you're managing Hashimoto's while trying to conceive. The group that received both PBM therapy and supplements saw significant improvements compared to the group that took supplements alone:
Thyroid Hormones: There was a statistically significant increase in thyroid hormone levels (FT4) in the PBM group. This is crucial for maintaining a healthy metabolism and supporting fertility.
Weight Management: Participants in the PBM group experienced statistically significant weight loss and reductions in body mass index (BMI), waist, and hip circumference. This is key because excess weight can disrupt ovulation and reduce fertility.
Antibody Levels: The PBM group also showed a statistically significant reduction in thyroid antibodies (antiTPO and antiTG), which are markers of autoimmune activity. Lower levels of these antibodies can indicate reduced inflammation and a more stable thyroid function.
TSH Levels: The PBM group saw a significant reduction in TSH levels, which is another critical factor in thyroid function and overall hormonal balance.
Were There Any Adverse Events?
One of the best parts? The study reported no adverse events related to PBM therapy. This suggests that PBM is a safe, non-invasive option that could complement traditional treatments for Hashimoto's, especially when you're focused on improving your fertility.
Why This Matters for Women Trying to Conceive
Managing Hashimoto's effectively is essential for anyone trying to conceive. By improving thyroid function, reducing inflammation, and helping with weight management, PBM therapy could potentially create a more favorable environment for conception.
If you're struggling with Hashimoto's and looking for new ways to support your health and fertility, this study suggests that combining PBM therapy with your current supplement regimen might be worth exploring.
This research offers promising insights into how a combined approach of PBM and supplements could help women with Hashimoto's restore their thyroid health and improve their chances of conceiving. If this resonates with you, consider discussing PBM therapy with your healthcare provider to see if it's a good fit for your journey or contact me for additional information.
Tracy
