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Symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Pregnancy

by Blue Gaia

Overview

A woman may develop hypothyroidism during pregnancy. In fact, hypothyroidism is one of the most common types of thyroid disease that surfaces during pregnancy, according to Pregnancy Info. Knowing the signs to watch for can help lessen the risks associated with hypothyroidism in pregnancy. It is important to note, however, that only 2 to 4 percent of pregnant women will develop hypothyroidism.
Pregnancy and hypothyroidism

Statistics

The thyroid gland is found in the middle of the lower neck. It regulates a person's metabolism and affects energy level and heart rate. The American Thyroid Association says women are five to eight times more likely than men to have thyroid problems. Some 20 million people in the United States have a form of thyroid disease. The hormone produced by the thyroid affects every single cell, tissue and organ in a person's body.
Symptoms

Hypothyroidism happens when the thyroid does not produce enough of a hormone. There are a number of symptoms an expectant mother may experience that indicate hypothyroidism. However, they are often difficult to determine because they are similar to the common symptoms associated with pregnancy. An expectant mother who is experiencing fatigue, weakness, weight gain, frequent muscle aches and a heightened sensitivity to cool or cold temperatures should speak with her doctor or health-care provider about her symptoms.
Complications

An expectant mother diagnosed with hypothyroidism will likely require daily treatment, according to Baby Center. Hypothyroidism can increase a woman's risk of miscarriage, preterm labor and hypertension. It is important to treat hypothyroidism as soon as it is diagnosed. According to a study published in the Journal of Medical Screening, pregnant women with hypothyroidism are four times more likely to have a miscarriage during the second trimester. Hypothyroidism also poses a risk of developmental problems to the unborn child.
Treatment

If treatment for hypothyroidism begins during the first trimester, the risk of giving birth to a child with development problems is greatly reduced, according to Pregnancy Info. The expectant mother may take daily doses of an artificial form of the hormone called thyroxine. Every six to eight weeks, an expectant mother diagnosed with hypothyroidism should undergo a thyroid-function test to ensure that her thyroid is working normally.
Medication

According to Baby Center, doctors recommend taking the hormone prescribed for hypothyroidism on an empty stomach. Prenatal vitamins often include iron and calcium supplements, which may interfere with how a woman's body absorbs thyroxine. Women are encouraged to take the hormone either one hour before a meal or two hours after a meal.