Pregnancy is a time of great change in a woman’s body, and that includes changes to the thyroid gland. The thyroid plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, so it’s essential to keep it healthy during pregnancy.
Unfortunately, some women develop pregnancy-related thyroid disorders that can cause complications for both mother and baby.
If you’re pregnant, it’s essential to know the signs and symptoms of these disorders and seek prompt treatment if necessary.
Here are some common pregnancy-related thyroid disorders that you need to know:
Hypothyroidism (under-active thyroid)
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones.
During pregnancy, the fetus depends on the mother’s thyroid hormones, so if the mother’s thyroid function is low, it can lead to developmental problems in the baby.
Hypothyroidism can cause fatigue, weight gain, constipation, and other symptoms. If you have hypothyroidism during pregnancy, your doctor will likely prescribe thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
Hyperthyroidism (over-active thyroid)
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces too many hormones. Like hypothyroidism, this condition can cause developmental problems in the fetus.
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism can include weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and anxiety. Treatment may include medications to slow down thyroid function.
Thyroid nodules
Thyroid nodules are lumps that develop in the thyroid gland. In most cases, they’re benign and don’t cause any problems, but in some cases, they can be cancerous.
If you have thyroid nodules during pregnancy, your doctor may perform a biopsy to determine if they’re cancerous. Treatment options may include surgery or radioactive iodine therapy.
Postpartum thyroiditis
Postpartum thyroiditis occurs in about 5% of women after giving birth. It’s characterized by inflammation of the thyroid gland, which can cause hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
Symptoms typically occur within the first year after giving birth and can include fatigue, weight gain, and difficulty concentrating.
Treatment options depend on whether you have hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, but most cases resolve on their own.
Thyroid cancer
Thyroid cancer is rare in pregnant women, but it can occur.
Symptoms may include a lump in the neck, difficulty swallowing, and hoarseness.
Treatment usually involves surgery to remove the thyroid gland, followed by radiation therapy and thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
Conclusion
Pregnancy-related thyroid disorders can be challenging to deal with, but with proper treatment, most women and their babies can have successful outcomes.
If you’re pregnant, be sure to talk to your doctor about any symptoms you’re experiencing and get regular thyroid function tests to ensure that your thyroid is functioning correctly.
By staying informed and seeking prompt treatment, when necessary, you can have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
