Things you should know about Thyroid during Pregnancy

During pregnancy, thyroid is a common problem and it really is important to treat to avoid growing. The thyroid also called hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism is an organ located in the front of your neck that releases hormones regulating your metabolism, heart and nervous system. Having thyroid hormones is very important to assure there is fatal development of the brain and nervous system during the initial months of pregnancy. When you reach for12 weeks, the thyroid gland in the fetus will begin producing.

According to Dr. Garima Tyagi, the leading gynecologists in Indirapuram, there are 2 pregnancy-related hormones- estrogenic and human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) causing thyroid levels to rise. However, the doctor may miss witnessing some symptoms.

Many women in the early stage of the thyroid may witness some symptoms like getting uncomfortable, weight loss and persistent vomiting. Dr. Garima Tyagi says untreated thyroid diseases during pregnancy may lead to premature birth, miscarriage and weight loss.

Some of the symptoms of Hyperthyroidism & Hypothyroidism during pregnancy-

Hyperthyroidism-

Pregnant women facing hyperthyroidism have symptoms like-

·         Irregular heartbeat

·         Heightened nervousness

·         Severe nausea or vomiting

·         Shaking hands (slight tremor)

·         Trouble sleeping

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism are-

·         Constipation

·         Difficulty concentrating or memory problems

·         Sensitivity to cold temperatures

·         Muscle cramps

·         Causes of Thyroid Disease during pregnancy-

Hyperthyroid Disease-

One of the common causes of this disease is autoimmune disorder Grave’s disease. In this, the body starts making antibody- also called thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI) that causes the thyroid to overreact.

The common cause of this disease is autoimmune disorder known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. During this, the body mistakenly attacks the cells of the thyroid gland.

Treatment for Thyroid Disease during Pregnancy-

As pregnant women face thyroid issue, the doctor needs to be very specific in terms of treatment. There are certain medications which the doctor will recommend. It is important for the doctor to check if the patient is responding to the medication. In many cases, Hyperthyroidism may get worse in the first 3 months after giving birth. It is always important to consult with the doctor for the medication.

Hypothyroidism is generally treated using a synthetic (man-made) hormone called levothyroxine. This is quite similar to hormone T4 made by the thyroid. Doctors usually adjust the dose of the levothyroxine at diagnosis and will monitor the functioning for a few weeks. The doctor may increase the dose of this medication to accommodate the increase in thyroid hormone replacement. In some cases, iron and calcium may block the absorption of the thyroid hormone in the body. In such cases, the doctor always advises avoiding consuming prenatal vitamin within 4 hours of levothyroxine consumption.

Conclusion

Thyroid can be dangerous if not treated on time during pregnancy. You need to consult with the respective gynecologist if facing any symptoms. It will help in having a healthy and safe delivery.