Your thyroid plays a significant role in pregnancy, as it regulates the production of two hormones that are important for the development of your baby’s nervous system and brain. If you’ve been diagnosed with thyroid disease, you should have the condition regularly monitored throughout your pregnancy.
If you are experiencing thyroid disease symptoms but have not yet received a diagnosis, you should inform your healthcare provider so they can monitor your condition throughout your pregnancy. Read on to find out more about thyroid disease and pregnancy.
What is the thyroid?
Your thyroid is a small gland in your neck with a shape similar to a butterfly. Like other organs, it creates substances to help your body function. The hormones your thyroid produces are vital for your health. Thyroid hormones affect everything from your heart rate to your metabolism.
In some cases, this gland makes too many or too few hormones. When this occurs, you are suffering from a thyroid disorder. Some women have a thyroid condition even before pregnancy, whereas others may develop thyroid problems during pregnancy or after giving birth.
Thankfully, with the proper treatment, a thyroid condition can be managed and not cause any pregnancy issues. However, untreated thyroid disease can be a problem for both you and your baby.
What are the symptoms of a thyroid condition?
For those concerned about thyroid disease and pregnancy, the following symptoms should be checked out:
- Unexplained weight changes, such as gaining weight even when you increase exercise and decrease caloric intake
- Sensitivity to temperature, such as frequently feeling cold or hot despite temperatures being normal
- Sleep issues and fatigue that are affecting your daily life
- Mental health issues including depression, anxiety and other mood disorders
- Swelling of the neck or throat
How can thyroid problems affect pregnancy?
Different types of thyroid conditions will affect pregnancies differently. Hypothyroidism is when the gland is underactive. If left untreated, this can cause a range of problems, including:
- Miscarriage
- Preterm labor
- Developmental problems in your child
- Motor problems in your child
Experts recommend that before you become pregnant, you should talk to your healthcare provider to regulate dosage of thyroid replacement medications. This medication may need to be significantly increased during pregnancy as well. If you suffer from hypothyroidism, you will need regular screenings throughout your pregnancy.
Another common thyroid condition is hyperthyroidism, which is when the gland is overactive. During pregnancy, hyperthyroidism is frequently linked to conditions like Graves’ disease and temporary gestational hyperthyroidism. Possible health impacts of this condition include preeclampsia—a serious blood pressure condition—heart failure, premature birth, miscarriage and low birthweight.
We hope this guide to how thyroid problems affect pregnancy has been helpful. For more than three decades, Chemique Pharmaceuticals has been a leader in the infusion pharmacy industry. We’re a destination for everything from hormone replacement therapies to hydration therapies and more. We craft individualized treatments to help you feel your very best. Get in touch with us today to learn more about how our innovative programs can help during your pregnancy.