Hypothyroidism is a condition that causes the thyroid gland to be underactive and can occur during pregnancy. Many hypothyroidism symptoms is similar to pregnancy symptoms. Fatigue, weight gain, and abnormal menstruation are all symptoms shared by both. Low thyroid hormone levels can even make it difficult to get pregnant or cause miscarriage.
Hypothyroidism in pregnancy is a common condition. If the symptoms are mild, they can go undetected. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid is underactive and produces insufficient thyroid hormones. Hypothyroidism symptoms can be mild and develop gradually. The following are the most common hypothyroidism symptoms:
● Tiredness
● unable to withstand cold temperatures
● hoarse voice
● Face swelling
● Weight gain
● Constipation
● Skin and hair changes, including dry skin and brow loss
● Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the tendons in the (hand tingling or pain)
● Slow heart rate
● Muscle cramps
● Concentration issues
● Menstrual cycle irregularities
The symptoms of hypothyroidism may resemble those of other conditions or medical problems. One should consult doctors for diagnosis.
How does hypothyroidism affect the foetus?
During the first few months of pregnancy, thyroid hormones are dependent on the mother. Thyroid hormones play an important role in foetal brain development and growth. Hypothyroidism in the mother or the thyroid during pregnancy can have long-term consequences for the foetus.
To check for hypothyroidism in pregnancy, you will have a blood test that measures thyroid hormone (thyroxine, or T4) and serum TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) levels. When TSH levels are higher than normal and T4 levels are lower than normal, hypothyroidism is frequently suspected.
Who should have their thyroid function checked?
Routine screening for hypothyroidism isn’t applicable. A pregnant woman with hypothyroidism symptoms, a history of hypothyroidism, or other endocrine system conditions should be screened.
Thyroid hormone replacement therapy is used to treat the mother. The dosage of thyroid hormone replacement therapy is determined by the individual's thyroid hormone levels. Thyroid hormone levels may fluctuate during pregnancy. In addition, the dosing of thyroid replacement medication may change. During the first half of pregnancy, thyroid hormone levels should be checked every 4 weeks. The treatment is both safe and necessary for both mother and foetus. Thyroid hormone levels are tested routinely for all newborns.
If you had hypothyroidism prior to becoming pregnant, you will most likely need to increase the amount of medication you take during pregnancy. As soon as you find out you're pregnant, talk to your doctor about your medication. By monitoring your TSH levels during pregnancy, your provider can ensure you're getting the right dose.
Consult your healthcare provider about taking levothyroxine or another medication to treat hypothyroidism while breastfeeding.