Thyroid Disease During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Introduction
Normal fetal development takes place during the first three months of pregnancy. Thyroid hormones must be monitored. Thyroid levels should be checked before and during pregnancy to ensure that you are not suffering from hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Jaipur is one of the most sought-after destinations inside Rajasthan to receive IVF treatments. If you’re seeking to start the family of your dreams, go to Mishka IVF Jaipur centre one of the most renowned clinics located in Jaipur. They offer a wide range of servicesand most modern technology and a warm and comfortable atmosphere.
Grazia Alppo, MD. FACPA Associate Professor of Medicine – Endocrinology
Thyroid diseases–hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism–are relatively common during pregnancy and important to treat. The thyroid organ is located at the front of the neck and releases hormones that regulate metabolism (how your body uses energy), heart rate, weight, nervous system, body temperature, and other body processes.
Because the baby is dependent on hormones from you, thyroid hormones are essential to ensure healthy brain development and nerve system development during your first three months of pregnancy. The fetus’ thyroid gland will start to produce its thyroid hormones around 12 weeks.
You will most likely be checked on your thyroid level monthly if you have Graves disease during pregnancy.
Overview
Your thyroid levels may rise due to the presence of 2 hormones that are related to pregnancy: estrogen (hCG), and estrogen (estrogen). It may be more difficult to diagnose thyroid conditions that occur during pregnancy. Your doctor will still be looking for signs that may indicate the need to have additional testing.
Pre-existing hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism should be treated to ensure that you stay healthy during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. Sometimes, hyperthyroidism can be caused by pregnancy. If you have any new or uncomfortable symptoms such as weight loss, persistent vomiting, or palpitations, please consult your doctor.
Preeclampsia, miscarriage, and high blood pressure can all be caused by untreated thyroid disease. Talking to your doctor is important if you have a history of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism to ensure that you are monitored during pregnancy and that you receive the correct medication adjustments if needed.
Pregnancy symptoms of Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism symptoms may look similar to normal pregnancy symptoms, such as increased heart rate and sensitivity to heat. The following symptoms are also signs of hyperthyroidism:
- Unregular heartbeat
- Increased nervousness
- Severe nausea or vomiting
- Shaking hands (slight shaking)
- Trouble sleeping
- A pregnancy that is not typical will result in weight loss or a low weight gain.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism symptoms, like extreme tiredness or weight gain, can be confused easily with normal pregnancy symptoms. You may also experience the following symptoms:
- Constipation
- Memory problems or difficulty concentrating
- Cold temperatures: Sensitivity
- Muscle cramps
Thyroid Diseases in Pregnancy
Hyperthyroidism–The most common reason for maternal hyperthyroidism is the autoimmune disease Grave’s disease. This disorder is caused by an antibody, which the body produces when it suspects that a virus or bacteria might be present. It’s called thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI). The Thyroid then overreacts and makes too much thyroid hormone.
Your body can still produce the TSI antibody even if you have had radioactive iodine therapy or thyroid surgery. If your levels are too high, TSI can travel through your bloodstream to the developing fetus. This could cause it to make more hormones than it needs. Your baby and you will both be well taken care of as long as your doctor checks your thyroid levels.
Hypothyroidism–The most common form of hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition. This condition occurs when the thyroid gland is mistakenly attacked by the body, leaving it without sufficient cells and enzymes to produce enough thyroid hormone.
Thyroid Disease Diagnoses in Pregnancy
Pregnancy hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can be diagnosed by symptoms, physical examination, and blood tests to determine thyroid-stimulating hormone levels (TSH), and thyroid hormones T4 and T3.
Thyroid disease treatment during pregnancy
An antithyroid medication is used to treat hyperthyroidism in women. Surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid might be required in rare cases. Your doctor may recommend that you increase your medication to prevent hyperthyroidism from getting worse within the first three months following birth.
Hypothyroidism can be treated with a synthetic hormone (man-made hormone) called levothyroxine. This hormone is very similar to T4 produced by the thyroid. Your doctor will adjust your dose of levothyroxine when you are diagnosed with pregnancy. They will also continue to monitor your thyroid function every 4 weeks. You should notify your doctor if you are hypothyroid and taking levothyroxine. This will allow the doctor to adjust the dosage to meet the increased thyroid hormone replacement. Prenatal vitamins can block thyroid hormone absorption so you should not take them within 3-4 hours of taking levothyroxine. Checkout: More Awesome Content