“When the thyroid gland is functioning normally, it produces enough hormones and releases them into your bloodstream. But in pregnant women, thyroid disease can cause the thyroid gland to become overactive or even underactive,” says Dr. Sucheta Parte, an obstetrician and gynecologist at Motherhood Hospital (in Lullanagar, Pune, India).
Thyroid disease
Hyperthyroidism: In the case of overactive thyroid, the thyroid gland produces an excessive amount of hormones, also known as hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism tends to speed up the body's metabolism, leading to sudden weight loss without any reason, excessive sweating, rapid heart rate, frequent bowel movements and nausea, and shaking hands, also known as tremors.
Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid is also known as hypothyroidism; this condition occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones for the body to function properly. During hypothyroidism, the metabolic rate slows down, leading to weight gain, thinning or loss of hair, slower heart rate, brain fog, and irregular menstrual periods.
The link between the thyroid and pregnancy
Dr. Sucheta Parte explains that thyroid hormones are very important during pregnancy. Because thyroid hormones produced by the pregnant mother's thyroid gland are essential for the development of the baby's brain and nervous system.
Increased thyroid hormone levels support the health and development of both mother and baby. The baby is completely dependent on the mother's thyroid hormone and begins to develop independently after 10 to 12 weeks of pregnancy.
Many women tend to have thyroid problems, explains Sucheta Parte, with some women having thyroid problems before, during, or after pregnancy.
Therefore, iodine supplementation is very important for pregnant women, as it helps the brain and nervous system of the fetus develop normally. Insufficient iodine levels can directly affect the thyroid function, development and cognitive ability of the fetus.
“If the thyroid is left untreated during pregnancy, it can lead to complications such as preeclampsia, premature birth, low birth weight, miscarriage and even stillbirth. Pregnant women must seek timely intervention when it comes to the health of themselves and their babies,” warns Dr. Sucheta Parte.
Treatment of thyroid disorders during pregnancy aims to promote hormonal balance and support a healthy pregnancy. Your doctor may also prescribe medications to normalize thyroid hormone levels.
Pregnant women should regularly monitor their thyroid hormone levels throughout pregnancy by getting tested and checked promptly, concludes Sucheta Parte.
Also, maintain a healthy lifestyle and eat foods rich in iodine like eggs and dairy products and try to exercise daily, avoid stress.
