What is the most common thyroid disorder in women?

The most common thyroid disorder in women is indeed hypothyroidism, specifically due to Hashimoto thyroiditis, which is an autoimmune condition. Hashimoto thyroiditis leads to the gradual destruction of the thyroid gland, causing it to become underactive and resulting in hypothyroidism. This autoimmune disorder predominately affects women, often starting in middle adulthood, and is the primary cause of hypothyroidism in this population.

Hypothyroidism itself is characterized by insufficient levels of thyroid hormones in the body, which can lead to a range of symptoms including fatigue, weight gain, and depression. While it is important to note that Hashimoto thyroiditis is a common underlying cause of hypothyroidism, the term "hypothyroidism" encompasses a broader diagnosis that can result from various factors beyond autoimmune disease.

Graves' disease, while also common, generally causes hyperthyroidism rather than hypothyroidism, and thyroid cancer, although serious, is less prevalent compared to thyroid disorders like Hashimoto thyroiditis and hypothyroidism. Therefore, the identification of Hashimoto thyroiditis as the underlying cause of the most common thyroid disorder showcases its significance in women's health, particularly in relation to hypothyroidism.