A normal pregnancy results in many important physiological and hormonal changes. This alters Thyroid function also. Hyperthyroidism is not common during pregnancy. The symptoms of hyperthyroidism are less visible as they mimic the changes in normal pregnancy.
In this article, we will explain to you the causes, effects, and treatment of maternal hyperthyroidism.
Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland makes too much thyroid hormone. Graves disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism during pregnancy. When the thyroid gland makes excess T3 and T4 hormones, it causes TSH production to shut down. An overactive thyroid gland increases metabolism. If hyperthyroidism treatment is not done it poses risk to both mother and baby. It can increase the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and low birth weight. Maternal Hyperthyroidism increases the risk of birth defects in the baby.
Hyperthyroidism is not common during pregnancy.Hyperthyroidism causes during pregnancy include-
Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism include-
What are the birth defects caused by hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism’s effect on pregnancy can be rarely serious. Hyperthyroidism during pregnancy should be closely monitored to allow proper foetal management. Maternal hyperthyroidism increases the risk of some birth defects. The birth defects include-
Hyperthyroidism treatment during pregnancy is antithyroid medication. These drugs prevent the gland from making too much thyroid hormone. Pregnant women with graves disease should seek medical advice for taking antithyroid treatment. In the first trimester, experts recommend propylthiouracil. In later trimesters methimazole is given. These hyperthyroidism tablets have side effects. Propylthiouracil can sometimes affect the liver. Both of these hyperthyroidism tablets should be taken after the doctor’s advice.
Women who are breastfeeding should take hyperthyroidism treatment as per the doctor’s advice. They should not take radioactive iodine treatment.
While, it is recommended that you quickly opt for HERA pregnancy formula that contains only the right ingredients like calcium and vitamin D3 in the correct dosages to bridge any gaps in nutrition during pregnancy that affect your baby’s skeletal system development.
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HERA pro tip - Calcium deficiency in pregnant women is one of the reasons for hyperthyroidism. HERA Strong Baby Enhancer was made specifically for pregnant women. It is recommended that you start taking Calcium from the day of the conception until the end of pregnancy. If you are already a few weeks or months into your pregnancy journey, don’t worry and just start taking our strong baby formula from today..- HERA
Does hyperthyroidism affect the baby after birth?
The cause of hyperthyroidism in the newborn is the crossing of the antibodies through the placenta. These antibodies are a potential risk to the baby. Babies whose mothers have a history of graves disease may have temporary or permanent effects. In severe forms, babies may need intensive care support and it may be fatal.
What is the normal range of hyperthyroidism in pregnancy?
Hyperthyroidism treatment is very specific for each patient. The goal of treatment is to maintain a normal hormone level. The normal range of TSH during pregnancy are-
A point to remember- It is important to monitor TSH levels during pregnancy. Hyperthyroidism increases the risk of miscarriage..- HERA
What are the risk factors of maternal hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism diagnosis includes blood tests and physical examination. There are some risk factors that lead to the development of hyperthyroidism during pregnancy. The risk factors include-
What are the guidelines to maintain maternal hyperthyroidism?
Effects of hyperthyroidism in pregnancy can lead to worse outcomes. Miscarriage, preterm birth, and pre-eclampsia can affect both mother and the baby. You should follow thesehyperthyroidism treatment guidelines to maintain maternal hyperthyroidism–
The bottom line
Hyperthyroidism during pregnancy can be serious if left untreated. Hyperthyroidism can increase the risk of miscarriages, pre-eclampsia, preterm birth, and birth defects. Hyperthyroidism can be treated with proper medication and monitoring.