Thyroid Medication Side Effects: Impact on Menstrual Cycle and Tailbone Pain

Thyroid medication side effects issues?

Hello, Doctor.
I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism two years ago and have been on medication for long-term management, but I have not been able to stop the medication.
I was originally taking carbimazole 10 mg, two tablets a day, but recently switched to propylthiouracil 50 mg, two tablets a day at a major hospital.
After two months on this new medication, I noticed that my menstrual period has not come (I have confirmed that I am not pregnant).
Recently, I have also experienced some pain in the coccyx area, especially sharp pain when sitting down and getting up.
However, I have not fallen or experienced any external trauma to the coccyx.
I have heard that taking antithyroid medication can affect the menstrual cycle, but I am unsure if the coccyx pain could also be a side effect of the medication.
Are there similar issues in gynecology? I would appreciate your guidance.
Thank you.

Tina, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/26

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hyperthyroidism can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding.
However, the absence of menstruation is not necessarily related to thyroid issues.
Coccydynia may not be a side effect of medication and may not be related to gynecological concerns.
It is recommended that you consult a physician for an examination, particularly regarding your thyroid condition, and ask questions in person.

Reply Date: 2015/11/26

More Info

Thyroid medications, particularly antithyroid drugs like carbimazole and propylthiouracil, can indeed have various side effects, including potential impacts on the menstrual cycle. It is not uncommon for women undergoing treatment for hyperthyroidism to experience changes in their menstrual patterns. These medications work by inhibiting the production of thyroid hormones, which can lead to hormonal imbalances that may affect the regularity and flow of menstrual cycles. In your case, the absence of menstruation (amenorrhea) for the past two months could be attributed to the effects of propylthiouracil, especially since you have confirmed that pregnancy is not a factor.

In addition to menstrual irregularities, thyroid medications can also lead to other side effects, including fatigue, weight changes, and, in some cases, musculoskeletal pain. The tailbone pain you are experiencing, particularly when sitting down or getting up, may not be directly caused by the medication itself but could be related to changes in your body due to the underlying thyroid condition or other factors such as posture, prolonged sitting, or even stress. It is essential to consider that chronic conditions and medications can lead to muscle tension and discomfort in various areas of the body, including the lower back and tailbone.

From a gynecological perspective, it is essential to monitor any changes in your menstrual cycle closely. If you have not had your period for two months, it would be advisable to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They may want to evaluate your thyroid function tests to ensure that your medication dosage is appropriate and that your thyroid levels are within the desired range. Additionally, they may consider other potential causes for the amenorrhea, such as stress, weight changes, or other hormonal imbalances.

Regarding the tailbone pain, it would be beneficial to assess your overall physical activity, posture, and any other lifestyle factors that may contribute to discomfort. If the pain persists or worsens, seeking evaluation from a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or an orthopedic specialist, may provide insights into managing the pain effectively.

In summary, while your thyroid medication may influence your menstrual cycle, it is crucial to have a comprehensive evaluation to determine the underlying causes of both the amenorrhea and the tailbone pain. Open communication with your healthcare provider will help ensure that you receive appropriate care and management for your symptoms.

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