Hyperthyroidism vs. Hypothyroidism

You’re tired all the time.
Or unusually anxious.
Your periods have changed, but nothing else seems “wrong.”

In reality, thyroid imbalance doesn’t show up in just one way. It comes in two distinct types, hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, and each affects the body very differently. Knowing which one you’re dealing with can make all the difference.

First, What Does the Thyroid Do?

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in your neck.
It controls how fast or slow your body works, including:

• Metabolism

• Energy levels

• Heart rate

• Menstrual cycle

• Mood and mental clarity

When the thyroid makes too much hormone or too little, your body feels the impact everywhere.

What Is Hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism happens when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone.
This speeds up your body’s systems.

Common Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism

• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations

• Unexplained weight loss

• Anxiety, nervousness or restlessness

• Feeling hot or sweating more than usual

• Trouble sleeping

• Lighter, shorter or missed periods

Your body is basically running in overdrive.

What Is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces too little thyroid hormone.
This slows down your body’s functions.

Common Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

• Constant fatigue or low energy

• Weight gain despite no major diet changes

• Feeling cold easily

• Brain fog or poor concentration

• Dry skin and hair fall

• Heavy, irregular or delayed periods

Your body feels like it’s moving in slow motion.

So, how do they feel different in the body?

The biggest difference between hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism is speed.

With hyperthyroidism, the body tends to feel like it’s rushing, the heart beats faster, thoughts may feel restless, sleep can be disturbed, and periods often become lighter or irregular.

With hypothyroidism, everything slows down, energy dips, weight may increase, thinking can feel foggy, and periods often become heavier, delayed, or unpredictable.

Both conditions affect the body deeply, just in opposite directions, and both deserve attention.

How Thyroid Disorders Affect Periods & Intimate Health

Thyroid hormones interact closely with reproductive hormones like estrogen and progesterone.

An imbalance can cause:

• Irregular cycles

• Changes in flow (too heavy or too light)

• Increased vaginal dryness or discharge changes

• Fatigue that affects daily comfort and intimacy

This is why thyroid issues are often first noticed through period changes.

Why Thyroid Issues Are More Common in Women

Women are much more likely to experience thyroid disorders due to:

• Hormonal fluctuations

• Pregnancy and postpartum changes

• Autoimmune conditions

Many symptoms are mistakenly brushed off as “stress” or “normal period issues,” which delays diagnosis.

When Should You Get Checked?

Consider a thyroid test if you notice:

• Ongoing period irregularities

• Unexplained weight changes

• Persistent fatigue or anxiety

• Changes in skin, hair or mood

A simple blood test can give clarity.

Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism are different, but both deserve attention.
If something feels off in your body, especially around your cycle, it’s worth listening.