Clinical and reproductive characteristics of women with thyroid dysfunction under conditions of active hostilities as a basis for individualized contraceptive choice

Abstract

DOI: 10.52705/2788-6190-2026-02-9
УДК 618.17-008.8:616.441-008.6:615.256.5:159.944.4:355.01

Thyroid dysfunction in women of reproductive age may affect menstrual function, ovulatory processes, psycho-emotional status, and reproductive planning, which necessitates an individualized approach to contraceptive choice [1–4]. Under conditions of active hostilities, the significance of this issue increases, as chronic war-related stress is associated with menstrual cycle disorders, psychovegetative manifestations, changes in reproductive intentions, and a growing need for reliable contraceptive counseling.
The objective: to assess clinical and reproductive characteristics, reproductive plans, the nature of menstrual cycle disorders, and the level of stress burden in women with thyroid dysfunction under conditions of active hostilities as a basis for individualized contraceptive choice.
Materials and methods. A descriptive analytical study was conducted involving 105 women of reproductive age with thyroid dysfunction who required counseling regarding the choice or correction of a contraceptive method. The patients were divided into three groups: Group I included 32 women with hypothyroidism or subclinical hypothyroidism; Group II included 28 women with hyperthyroidism, a history of thyrotoxicosis, or unstable thyroid status; Group III included 45 women with autoimmune thyroiditis and euthyroid or subclinically altered thyroid profile. The presence of children, reproductive plans, reasons for postponing pregnancy, menstrual disorders, and stress level were analyzed.
Results. Fifty-three women (50.5 %) had one or more children; however, 96 patients (91.4 %) did not plan pregnancy within the next 12 months. The main reasons for postponing pregnancy were the war situation and threat to life – 75.0 %, deterioration of well-being against the background of stress – 66.7 %, anxiety about a future pregnancy – 61.5 %, economic instability – 51.0 %, and absence of a permanent partner – 43.8 %. Menstrual cycle disorders were detected in 76 (72.4 %) women. A high level of stress was recorded in 48 (45.7 %) patients, most often among women with hyperthyroidism, a history of thyrotoxicosis, or unstable thyroid status.
Conclusions. Women with thyroid dysfunction under conditions of active hostilities have a high frequency of menstrual disorders, significant psycho-emotional burden, and a pronounced need for effective contraception. The obtained data substantiate the need for individualized contraceptive counseling, taking into account thyroid status, reproductive plans, menstrual function, and stress-associated psychovegetative changes.