Endocrinologist

[Thefaceofboe]

After being diagnosed with an underactive thyroid a month ago, I was put on a low dose of levothyroxide, only 25. I had my check up bloods today as I’ve been on them for 4 weeks and when I rang up I was told by the receptionist I am being referred to an endocrinologist (had to google this). Has anyone had any experience with this? Is it normal protocol with an underactive thyroid. I’m struggling to conceive which is why the tests have been done.
I have to wait till next week to discuss with my GP and I’m really nervous.

Sorry had my check up bloods on Monday and rang for the results today

Normal and best practice. Some GPs are great at managing thyroid, some are less so. Just depends on their experience and individual interests. Best to have it managed by an endocrinologist if you're also trying to convince as it'll be nicer for you to have it under control faster.
Yes you could scare yourself silly with Dr google but even worst case scenarios are manageable. Good luck. X

Thank you! I’m annoyed at myself for missing the call as I’m sure my GP would have explained it all to me but luckily my phone appointment is Tuesday so I don’t have too long to wait.

I just wanted to agree with @Arrowcat. Endocrinologists are experts in the endocrine system. GPs are generalists. Not all GPs will refer to an endocrinologist but it's the best person to handle your care, especially if you're TTC.

@Curiosity101 is it normal for them to refer straight away? From what I can gather (yes from google) GPs tend to refer a bit later down the line. I’m worried my results have shown something abnormal which is why I’ve been referred.

I can't imagine what they'd show that would be so unusual that it prompted a referral. They've probably either got a fantastic endocrinology department nearby or it's just your GPs standard protocol for thyroid conditions.

I got a private test done which diagnosed me with Hashimotos. When I called the GP she suggested waiting 4 weeks before redoing the test. I explained that it was pointless waiting and nothing would change if we wait. She said she'd get a second opinion from our local endocrinology department and see what they said. They agreed with me so I got a repeat blood test a few days later and started treatment the next week. (Roughly 3 weeks before I'd have even been tested to confirm the private diagnosis).

GPs are amazing, the breadth of knowledge they have is unbelievable. But they often don't have the specialist knowledge to deal with some of the trickier issues (like hormones/fertility). I wouldn't worry about your referral at all if I were you, but you could ask at your initial endocrinology appointment? I'm sure the doctor you speak to will explain if there was something specifically that triggered the referral.

@Curiosity101 thanks so much that’s really reassured me. It’s all very complex isn’t it and I have no knowledge about thyroid problems so I just have to go by google, especially as we’re not seeing the doctor face to face at the moment. My GP has been amazing so far though so I’m happy to do as she requests and I’m glad to finally be getting somewhere, and hopefully get some answers.