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Hypothyroidism in Pregnancy: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

About

The presence of lower levels of thyroid hormones in the body is known as hypothyroidism. Thyroid hormones are essential for development of baby’s brain and nervous system.

During pregnancy, the prevalence of hypothyroidism is 0.3%-0.5% for overt hypothyroidism and 2%-3% for subclinical hypothyroidism as per estimation.[1]

- Not self-treatable
- Not self-diagnosable
- Laboratory tests and imaging are required

One of the main causes of hypothyroidism is the autoimmune disorder, also known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. This disorder is also known as underactive thyroid. There are certain risk factors associated with hypothyroidism such as increase in blood pressure later in pregnancy, Anaemia, Miscarriage, Low birth weight and Congestive heart failures in some cases.

Symptoms

Self-diagnosable:
● Feeling of extreme tiredness
● Muscle cramps and cold intolerance
● Constipation
● Lack of concentration and weight gain
People may experience: Fatigue
Also common: Problems with memory

Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis: First, the doctor asks for the symptoms and may recommend blood tests to examine the level of thyroid hormone levels in the blood.

Treatment

Medication: It involves replacement of the hormone that a woman’s own thyroid is unable to make. It is replaced in the form of synthetic levothyroxine. Certain other medicines to improve the level of thyroid may be prescribed by the doctor as per the need of the patient.

Specialists: For further concern, consult a gynaecologist. At mfine, you will receive a holistic treatment plan for optimum health.