Written By: Longjam Dineshwori | Updated : February 18, 2023 6:01 PM IST
Many hypothyroidism symptoms resemble those of pregnancy.
It is usually normal to experience symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and muscle cramps during pregnancy, but sometimes these could result from hypothyroidism. An underactive thyroid gland leads to symptoms of hypothyroidism, which can occur during pregnancy. Many hypothyroidism symptoms resemble those of pregnancy, such as exhaustion, weight gain, and irregular menstruation. Hypothyroidism during pregnancy should not be taken lightly. Untreated hypothyroidism can lead to severe complications for both the mother and the unborn baby. Hence, it is important that thyroid disease is treated and monitored closely.
Talking to TheHealthSite, Dr. Sushruta Mokadam, Senior Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital, Kharadi, Pune, elaborated on the link between hypothyroidism and pregnancy, and highlighted some of the consequences of untreated hypothyroidism during pregnancy.
The majority of the time, doctors don't test a woman's thyroid before or during pregnancy unless she is at a high risk of having a thyroid problem or exhibits symptoms or indications of one. Inform your physician if you have any thyroid-related signs or symptoms, especially if you're pregnant. The symptoms of an illness are things that another person may observe in you or learn about you for, such as a rash or a cough as also symptoms felt by you, such as a sore throat or a sensation of wooziness. Signs and symptoms of thyroid disorders develop gradually over time. Having one does not automatically indicate that you have a thyroid issue because many are indicators and symptoms of other medical diseases.
To screen for thyroid issues, your doctor does a physical examination and a blood test. The thyroid hormone and thyroid stimulating hormone (commonly known as TSH) levels in your body are determined by a blood test. A hormone called TSH from the pituitary gland in the brain instructs your thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. Ask your doctor about testing if you suspect you may have a thyroid disorder.
If left untreated, hypothyroidism during pregnancy can cause serious issues for both mothers and their unborn children.
Women's issues may include:
Babies may have issues like:
The baby won't be harmed by any medications used to treat thyroid disorders during pregnancy. Thyroid medications can assist in ensuring that your body has the proper amount of thyroid hormones. Your doctor orders blood tests for you to assess your TSH and T4 levels while you are pregnant to ensure that the dosage of your medication is appropriate (also called dose).
Before becoming pregnant, discuss with your provider whether you are taking medication for a thyroid problem. To ensure that your medication is safe for your infant, your doctor might wish to modify it. When you get pregnant, if you're currently on thyroid medication, maintain taking it and consult your doctor as soon as you can.
If you were hypothyroid before getting pregnant, you should probably take more medication during pregnancy. As soon as you discover you are pregnant, see your doctor about your medication. By monitoring your TSH levels while you are pregnant, your healthcare practitioner can ensure that you are taking the appropriate dosage.
