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An Overview On Hypothyroidism During Pregnancy

You might be wondering why hypothyroidism is connected with pregnancy. By just looking into the symptoms of both cases, you will understand why. This is an introduction to this topic.

Pregnancy is a normal phenomenon for women. But what if it becomes critical because of an unknown disease? What if the unborn baby is compromised because of an untreated disorder? It is a fact that women of child bearing age are prone to having thyroid disorders. According to studies, hypothyroidism is a common thyroid disorder during pregnancy. This may affect not only the mother but the fetus as well.

This article will give you an overview of the thyroid gland and its functions. The difference of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism are also discussed here. On the latter paragraphs, hypothyroidism in relation to pregnancy will be discussed. Through this article you will expand your knowledge on the effects of hypothyroidism on both mother and baby.

Review of the thyroid gland and its function

To understand hypothyroidism better we will first discuss the gland that is responsible for producing the thyroid hormones. The thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped organ found in front of the neck just below the Adam’s apple. It secretes two different hormones namely the thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). The thyroid glands’ production of these hormones is triggered by the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) made by the pituitary gland.

Thyroxine and triiodothyronine affect growth, use of energy, heat production and fertility. Since the thyroid gland is part of the endocrine system, it is mainly responsible for regulating the body’s metabolism. In view of any malfunctioning of the thyroid, the so-called thyroid disorders are created in the area.

Thyroid disorders

Thyroid disorders are results of either overproduction or underproduction of thyroid hormones. Hyperthyroidism is the overproduction of thyroid hormones. This causes the body’s function to speed up. People diagnosed with hyperthyroidism experience weight loss, diarrhea, irritability, tremors, heat intolerance and increased heart rate.

Hypothyroidism on the other hand is the underproduction of thyroid hormones leading to slowed body processes. Weight gain, constipation, fatigue, cold intolerance and muscle cramps are some symptoms of hypothyroidism. Now that we have differentiated the two most common thyroid disorder we are now ready to discuss hypothyroidism during pregnancy.

Hypothyroidism and Pregnancy

Since most symptoms of hypothyroidism and pregnancy are often similar, patients overlook these symptoms and mistakenly think that it is part of their pregnancy. Little do they know that they are already risking both the mother and baby’s life. According to studies conducted women are more at risk in having hypothyroidism than men.

Hypothyroidism causes a variety of changes in the menstrual cycle. When diagnosed with it, irregularities like heavy periods, light or loss of periods can happen. Fatigue, weight gain and lethargy which are also common in pregnant women are present and are often overlooked. Constipation is also a common disruption.

These symptoms are often felt in the first trimester of the pregnancy when the pregnant mother is not yet aware of her condition. It is therefore wise to have your thyroid hormone levels measured before planning a pregnancy. Now that you are aware of the symptoms in disguise it is recommended for these women to undergo thyroid screening tests to avoid drastic complications.

Tags: hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, hypothyroidism during pregnanc, pregnancy, thyroid disease, thyroid gland

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