The Regulation of Thyroid Function in Pregnancy
The importance of proper thyroid function increases during pregnancy. If you think you may have a thyroid imbalance while trying to get pregnant or during pregnancy, consult your doctor.
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Fertility
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According to one study, 25 percent of women referred to an infertility clinic suffered from low-grade hypothyroidism. Endometriosis, a common female issue related to infertility, is also commonly related to thyroid imbalance. Infertility can be caused by an under or over-corrected thyroid imbalance.
Miscarriage
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Thyroid imbalance can cause recurrent miscarriages and problems with carrying a normal pregnancy. If treated, thyroid levels return to normal and you can become pregnant with no interference from your thyroid.
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Complications
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If you are severely hypothyroid, this can cause maternal anemia or pre-eclampsia (when a pregnant woman develops high blood pressure). Prenatal vitamins containing iron can interfere with the thyroid hormone. Have your thyroid levels checked before you become pregnant or when you realize you are pregnant.
Treatment for Hypothyroidism
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If you are hypothyroid, your doctor will treat you with the same medications, but in increasing dosages. Your baby receives a small amount of the thyroid hormone medication when you take it, which usually prevents fetal hypothyroidism. Measure your TSH every six weeks, and monitor your blood levels of thyroid hormone.
Treatment for Hyperthyroidism
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Ask you doctor about PTU, or propylthiouracil, for hyperthyroidism. It doesn't cause birth defects and is generally safe for your baby. Your doctor should start you on the lowest possible dose to prevent over-dosage, which can cause hypothyroidism in the fetus. Severe hyperthyroidism may require surgery during the second trimester.
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Sean McGrath
