Normal Thyroid Range During Pregnancy

The thyroid gland produces hormones to regulate functions throughout your body. During pregnancy, your baby will rely on these hormones for proper development. Have your thyroid hormone levels checked throughout your pregnancy to ensure they are normal.

Facts

The thyroid gland produces triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) hormones. According to the American Thyroid Association (ATA), normal T3 levels are high during pregnancy, while T4 levels should stay the same.

Types

There are two primary types of thyroid disorders: hypothyroidism, or under-active thyroid; and hyperthyroidism, also called an overactive thyroid.

Testing

You should be tested for a abnormal thyroid levels at some point during your pregnancy, and more often throughout if you have a preexisting thyroid condition. The ATA recommends that you have your thyroid hormone levels checked every four to eight weeks.

Treatment

Treatment is required to normalize your thyroid levels. If you have hypothyroidism, your doctor may increase the dosage of hormone replacements, depending upon your test results. Anti-thyroid medications are administered to hyperthyroid patients.

Warning

The ATA warns that untreated hyperthyroidism in a mother can cause stillbirths, deformations, and premature births. Untreated maternal hypothyroidism may lead to mental development problems in a baby.

References

• American Thyroid Association

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish