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Does being obese make Autoimmune Thyroiditis more common in women with PCOS?

moderate confidence  ·  Last reviewed May 23, 2026

Autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT), also known as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that often involves metabolic issues like insulin resistance and obesity. Research suggests that obesity may increase the risk of AIT in women with PCOS, possibly due to shared inflammatory and metabolic pathways. A large retrospective study found that AIT was more common in obese women with PCOS compared to those who were not obese.

What the research says

A retrospective cohort study of 1,249 women with PCOS found that the overall prevalence of autoimmune thyroiditis was 20.3% 6. When comparing by weight, AIT was present in 23.6% of obese PCOS women versus 18.6% of non-obese PCOS women, a statistically significant difference (p = 0.045) 6. This suggests that obesity is associated with a higher likelihood of having AIT in the PCOS population. The study also noted that the prevalence of AIT was not related to the specific PCOS phenotype, but obesity was a key factor 6. Other sources highlight that metabolic dysregulation, including obesity, can impair ovarian function and is linked to conditions like PCOS 1. Additionally, PCOS itself involves chronic low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress, which may contribute to autoimmune processes 4. While the exact mechanisms are still being studied, the evidence points to obesity as a potential risk factor for autoimmune thyroiditis in women with PCOS.

What to ask your doctor

  • Should I be screened for autoimmune thyroiditis if I have PCOS and am overweight or obese?
  • What are the signs and symptoms of autoimmune thyroiditis that I should watch for?
  • Could weight management help reduce my risk of developing autoimmune thyroiditis?
  • Are there any specific blood tests (like thyroid antibodies) you recommend for me?
  • How does my PCOS treatment plan address both metabolic and autoimmune risks?

This question is drawn from common patient questions about Diabetes & Endocrinology and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.