Can Menopause Cause Elevated Thyroid Stimulating Hormone?

There is no clear evidence that menopause causes elevated thyrotropin, and it usually does not. Possible causes of elevated thyrotropin include primary hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s disease with hypothyroidism, exogenous thyrotropin-secreting tumors (e.g., lung, breast), and recovery from subacute thyroiditis. Ingestion of lithium metal, potassium iodide, and thyrotropin-releasing hormone can increase thyrotropin. Some studies have shown that blood levels of total thyroxine are unchanged in menopausal women, and triiodothyronine hormone may decrease by 25% to 40% with age, but there is no hypothyroidism. Menopausal women with elevated thyroid stimulating hormone are advised to seek prompt medical attention to avoid delays.