Thyroid
The thyroid is a gland in the front of your neck that produces the thyroid hormone, which controls how your body uses energy.
Thyroid hormones affect a person's physical energy, temperature, weight, and mood, as well as influence several other organs and hormones. Thyroid disorders are common in women, especially right after pregnancy and menopause.
The most common thyroid disorders are when the thyroid hormone levels are too low or too high. Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Hyperthyroidism is when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone.
A normal thyroid hormone level is especially important during pregnancy, as it is critical to the health of the mother and baby.
Comparing Hypo- and Hyperthyroidism
Symptoms of hypothyroidism include:
- Weight gain
- Feeling cold
- Constipation
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Hair loss
- Changes in your period (usually heavier)
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:
- Weight loss
- Diarrhea
- Palpitations
- Feeling anxious or jittery
- Increased sweating
- Feeling hot
- Trouble sleeping
- Changes in your period (usually lighter)
What services does VA provide for thyroid issues?
If you report having symptoms of a thyroid issue to your VA Women's Health Primary Care Provider, they will start by taking a complete medical history to learn more about your symptoms and your family history. Your provider will do a detailed exam of your thyroid and order blood tests or additional imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or scan, if needed for diagnosis.
Your provider will refer you to an endocrinologist if a specialist is needed.
How do I access services for thyroid issues at VA?
The first step in accessing thyroid screening services at VA is to make an appointment with your VA Women's Health Primary Care Provider. They will work with you to determine a plan that works best for you and refer you to any additional thyroid testing if necessary.
If you don't already use VA health care, you may want to use the following online tools:
Find out if you are eligible for VA health care
Enroll in VA health care if you haven't already
Find your local VA and make an appointment
Where can I find more information, help, and resources on thyroid health?
- Learn more about thyroid disorders from the CDC*
- Learn more about thyroid disorders and women*
- Visit the Veterans Health Library to learn more about common thyroid problems
Women Veterans Health Care Videos
Watch videos for and about Women Veterans.
Women Veterans Health Care Outreach Posters
View our Outreach Posters.
The Women Veterans Call Center is your guide to women's health
If you have questions or can't find what you're looking for, you can call, text, or chat online with the Women Veterans Call Center (WVCC) at 855-829-6636 to get help and find available resources and services in your area. Trained women representatives can also:
- Provide you with information on enrolling in VA health care if you have not already
- Provide you with information on setting up a medical appointment in your area
- Provide you with information about your eligibility (including questions about disability ratings) and other VA benefits like employment, education, and home loans
- Connect you with your local VA Medical Center or local women's health contact who can assist in coordinating all the services you need
WVCC representatives are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET, and Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET.
* By clicking on these links, you will leave the Department of Veterans Affairs website.
† VA does not endorse and is not responsible for the content of the linked website.
