Definition
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck. It produces hormones that control metabolism. Pregnancy hormones can affect thyroid hormones. Untreated thyroid disorders in pregnancy increase the risk of pregnancy complications. It may cause harm to the developing fetus. There are two types of thyroid disorders:
- Hypothyroidism —the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone
- Hyperthyroidism —the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone
Causes
Hypothyroidism
Hashimoto’s disease is the most common cause of hypothyroidism. The immune system attacks the thyroid gland. Other causes of hypothyroidism in pregnancy include:
- Inadequate treatment of pre-existing hypothyroidism
- Overtreatment of hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism
Graves’ disease is characterized by overactivity of the thyroid. It is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. Another cause of hyperthyroidism in pregnancy is very high levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). However, cases of high hCG can resolve on their own.
Symptoms
Symptoms of hypothyroidism may include:
- Goiter in the front of your neck
- Fatigue
- Forgetfulness
- Depression
- Dry skin
- Slow heartbeat
- Weight gain
- Constipation
- Intolerance to cold
Untreated hypothyroidism in pregnancy can:
- Increase the risk of miscarriage and fetal death
- Preeclampsia
- Low birth weight
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism may include:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Heart palpitations or abnormal heart rhythm
- Sweating
- Nervousness
- Tremors
- Protruding eyes
- Intolerance to heat
- Diarrhea
- Trouble sleeping
Untreated hyperthyroidism in pregnancy is associated with:
- Heart failure
- Premature birth and low birth weight
- Preeclampsia
- Stillbirth
- Fetal hyperthyroidism
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.
Your doctor will test your thryoid hormone levels and other blood tests. Imaging of the thyroid may also be done.You may be referred to a doctor who specializes in hormone disorders.
Treatment
Hypothyroidism
To treat hypothyroidism, your doctor will prescribe medication to replace the hormone your thyroid is not producing enough of.
Hyperthyroidism
Mild hyperthyroidism during pregnancy is often monitored closely without therapy. In some cases, you may need to take medication. If antithyroid medications do not work, surgical removal of your thyroid gland may be done. It is rarely recommended during pregnancy. Treatment with radioiodine destroys the thyroid gland. It is not done during pregnancy because of risk to the fetus.
Hormones associated with pregnancy can cause changes in thyroid hormone levels. Therefore, your medication needs may vary during pregnancy. Your doctor will likely check your blood levels of thyroid hormone every 6-8 weeks during pregnancy and four weeks after your medication dose is changed.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: Andrea Chisholm, MD; Brian Randall, MD
- Review Date: 06/2013 -
- Update Date: 06/10/2013 -