Hypothyroidism in Pregnancy Risks, Symptoms, and How To Manage It

1. Hypothyroidism in Pregnancy: Risks, Symptoms, and How To Manage It? Hypothyroidism is common during pregnancy, but if it’s a pre-existing issue, then this can make your pregnancy unbearable. There is a direct link between the thyroid and female fertility, which most women are not aware of. That is why it is necessary to manage thyroid hormone levels to ensure the desired results. Almost 10% of pregnant women experience this issue. But with awareness, care, guidance, and the right treatment, you can reduce the risks.

2. How Do Thyroid Hormones Support Pregnancy? Pregnancy is directly accompanied by metabolic changes that are linked to the thyroid gland. Thyroid hormones play a crucial part in the development of the baby’s brain and nervous system. In the first 3 months of pregnancy, the baby gets thyroid hormones through the placenta, which further helps them to develop many changes. Although till the 12th week, the fetus develops thyroid of its thyroid, it does not produce enough thyroid hormones to ensure development till the 20th week.

3. What is Hypothyroidism? It is also known as an underactive thyroid. It is the condition when the thyroid gland is unable to produce enough thyroid hormones like T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine), which are necessary to fulfill the needs of the body. It slows down the metabolism, which makes it difficult for the body to burn calories. This causes women to store more fat than usual, resulting in weight gain. Around 5% of women experience this issue, while 20% of older women are prone to this issue.

4. Common Symptoms During Pregnancy Fatigue Cold Intolerance Slow Heartbeat Weight Gain Constipation Depression or Foggy memory Puffy Face, Hoarse Voice

5. Why It Matters in Pregnancy? Miscarriage Preterm Labour Preeclampsia Low Birth Weight Developmental Delays Postpartum Haemorrhage

6. How is Hypothyroidism Diagnosed? TSH Blood Test (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)- the test is conducted to analyse the thyroid activity in your blood, such as a low level indicates hypothyroidism and a high level indicates hyperthyroidism. Free T4 Levels- This test is conducted to assess the active thyroid hormones in the bloodstream. Auto-antibody this test helps to know about the antibodies that are attacking the thyroid. It also aids in diagnosing Hashimoto’s or Graves disease if an autoimmune origin is suspected, because the effects of hypothyroidism in pregnancy can result in some drastic results.

7. Safe Treatment Options Levothyroxine: This is one of the safest treatment options, as it is a synthetic thyroid hormone (T4). It helps the baby to receive an adequate number of thyroid hormones. As per the National Institutes of Health, combining thyroid medication in pregnancy is a safe option. Some people get benefits by combining levothyroxine and liothyronine, but it should be prescribed by a doctor. Regular Monitoring of TSH Every 4–6 Weeks: This helps to ensure an adequate thyroid hormone level and prevents the mother and the baby from complications. According to the American Thyroid Association, the first half of the pregnancy is critical because the level of TSH fluctuates a lot. Based on the tests and checks, the medication dose is readjusted by the doctors, according to NIH.

8. Safe Treatment Options Close Monitoring By Your Obstetrician: This is necessary, especially during the first trimester. The dosage of levothyroxine is increased by 30% upon confirmation of pregnancy. An obstetrician helps to monitor potential complications and also helps in detecting the problematic areas that can become a problem later. Surgery: Thyroidectomy is sometimes required during pregnancy and should be reserved for those situations where thioamides produce severe side effects or are unsuccessful in the restoration of euthyroidism (making the thyroid gland produce thyroid hormones accurately).

9. Dietary & Lifestyle Tips Iron & Calcium Supplements- These supplements are recommended to be taken separately from thyroid drugs like levothyroxine. This is to optimise the absorption of medication effectively and prevent the patient from drug interactions. Iron and calcium can hinder the absorption of medication, hindering the treatment. Iodine-Rich Foods: It is essential to synthesise T4 and T3 hormones, as these regulate metabolism, overall fetal growth, and energy levels. Without enough iodine, the thyroid gland is less efficient at producing enough hormones. Eggs, lima beans, yoghurt, cheese, nuts, dairy products, shrimps, shellfish, edible seaweed, prunes, and iodised salt are some good sources.

10. Conclusion Hypothyroidism, when well controlled, would not affect pregnancy. By early screening, expert treatment, and customised care, a woman can easily enjoy their pregnancy by managing thyroid hormones and ensuring the health of the unborn child. If you are pregnant or expecting pregnancy, or looking forward to extending your beautiful family, regular thyroid check-ups make the journey smoother. Contact Us Website - Cradle Children Hospital Phone +91 83770 10161