Hypothyroidism can complicate pregnancy and could lead to developmental delays for the child. Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid, which produces too-low levels of thyroid hormone.
An underactive thyroid is a common disorder for women of childbearing age,
MedicineNet.com reports. Doctors give medication and aim to keep the thyroid hormone level within a high normal range during pregnancy to decrease risk to the baby.
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The thyroid releases hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism, nervous system, body temperature, and other areas. Symptoms such as fatigue and weight gain could be confused with the normal effects of pregnancy, but they also could be
signs of hypothyroidism, according to Endocrine Web.
Other symptoms include muscle cramps, sensitivity to cold, difficulty concentrating, and constipation.
In the first trimester, symptom of hypothyroidism in pregnant women may mimic the effects of hyperthyroidism, which is an overactive thyroid. These include weight loss, persistent vomiting, and palpitations.
Untreated thyroid disease may cause significantly higher blood pressure, premature birth, miscarriage, and low birth weight, says Endocrine Web, which recommends discussing pregnancy and hypothyroidism treatment with a doctor, especially if you have a history of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
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Anemia, stillbirth, and congestive heart failure may also occur if the disease is not treated
during pregnancy, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
Symptoms and thyroid hormone level tests can help determine if hypothyroidism is present. Doctors use caution when getting the results to make sure the tests aren’t related to normal changes of thyroid function during pregnancy. The blood tests can also discover mild forms of hypothyroidism that don’t show symptoms.
Medication includes thyroxine, a synthetic thyroid hormone. During pregnancy, thyroid function is usually checked every six to eight weeks. The medication is safe for the woman and fetus, NIDDK reports.
Many women with borderline thyroid levels are often advised to undergo thyroid hormone therapy if they are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant, says MedicineNet.com.
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