Pregnant mothers need to pay attention to hypothyroidism during pregnancy

Hypothyroidism during pregnancy can cause very serious complications, including miscarriage. Therefore, it is very important to learn about this disease as well as its treatment during pregnancy. 

Among thyroid diseases , hypothyroidism is a disease that many people are concerned about, especially pregnant mothers. If not detected and handled in time, the disease can cause dangerous complications for mother and fetus.

Hypothyroidism in pregnancy

A decrease in the level of thyroid hormone in the blood causes hypothyroidism , in which case the function of the thyroid gland disrupts the release of enough thyroid hormone. Other causes include thyroidectomy , radiation therapy, medications, and pituitary disease. Goiter, iodine deficiency is believed to be the main causes of hypothyroidism.

Disease Hashimoto's thyroiditis , an autoimmune disease that usually occurs with thyroid in pregnant women, is a chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland. In it, the body's immune system attacks the thyroid, interfering with thyroid hormone activity and causing inflammation.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism in pregnancy is a common condition that can be missed if symptoms show up. Often times, symptoms of hypothyroidism are mistaken for depression .

The following symptoms are commonly found in the majority of patients:

Swollen face;

Skin stretches;

Extremely tired;

Slow circuit;

Poor cold tolerance;

Weight gain ;

Abdominal cramping pain;

Discomfort in the abdomen;

Poor concentration;

Increased TST concentration and decreased T4 concentration.

Effects of the disease on pregnant mothers

Hypothyroidism during pregnancy often makes pregnant women less active, sleepy all day. The effects of hypothyroidism include:

Anemia ;

Miscarriage;

Low birth weight fetus;

Stillbirth .

If pregnant mother does not control the disease, it can lead to inadequate development of the fetus brain as well as the whole body. Based on the symptoms as well as a chart of TST and T4 levels in the blood, a doctor can diagnose the disease.

Treatment of hypothyroidism in pregnancy

Treatment for hypothyroidism is usually done with thyroxin, a drug with effects similar to the hormone T4. Patients with hypothyroidism need to take iodine in addition to prolong their thyroxine levels. You also need to regularly check thyroid hormone levels.

Postpartum thyroiditis

Postpartum thyroiditis has been found, which can cause either hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Postpartum thyroiditis affects almost every woman for 1 year after birth. It usually starts with hyperthyroidism, after which thyroid hormones return to normal and eventually hypothyroidism.

People with hypothyroidism and postpartum thyroid disorders are more likely to develop permanent hypothyroidism and require lifelong treatment.

Symptoms of postpartum thyroiditis

Here are the most common symptoms:

Typical symptoms of postpartum thyroiditis include fatigue, irritation, and anxiety;

Hormone changes can occur with undetectable hyperthyroidism;

If your thyroid antibody test is positive, the likelihood of symptoms of postpartum depression increases;

Other symptoms include anxiety, tremors, insomnia and other symptoms similar to hyperthyroidism;

Symptoms and signs usually occur 1 to 4 months after birth and last 1 to 3 months;

An underactive thyroid condition is followed by symptoms such as lack of energy, dry skin and symptoms similar to hypothyroidism;

In women with a diagnosis of postpartum thyroiditis there will be symptoms of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, but not both.

Diagnosis of postpartum thyroiditis

It is common for medical professionals to ignore this. You need to see a specialist regularly for signs of both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. TSH tests need to be repeated. To have a safe and healthy pregnancy, you should have your thyroid hormone levels checked. Also consult your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms that can be detected and treated promptly.

There are many thyroid diseases that occur during and after pregnancy. Pregnant mothers need to see their doctor regularly to ensure the safety of themselves and the fetus!