Your thyroid gland, located right beneath the larynx and in front of the neck, has many vital functions. It controls your metabolism, growth, and energy. The hormones (T3 and T4) become even more important during pregnancy, as your body goes through many changes, such as a surge in the metabolism rate, to support the growing baby. 

Besides, your baby also depends on thyroid hormones for their brain development. Too little or too much thyroid production interferes with the baby’s growth. You must see a gynecologist in Airoli who specializes in thyroid-related pregnancy issues to ensure complete care during pregnancy.

Hyperthyroidism During Pregnancy

Hyperthyroidism, also known as an overactive thyroid, is a condition in which your thyroid gland produces excessive hormone, resulting in a faster metabolism, palpitations, tremors, and weight loss despite a balanced diet. If hyperthyroidism goes unmanaged, it can increase the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby. 

Complications in Mothers

Hyperthyroidism puts you at an increased risk of preeclampsia, miscarriage, or preterm birth. Too much production of thyroid hormones can also interfere with your heart function. It can lead to changes in your heart rhythms, and in severe conditions, heart failure. 

Hyperthyroidism can also cause thyroid storms, the symptoms of which include high fever, rapid heartbeat, confusion, nausea, and vomiting. It’s considered a medical emergency.

Complications in Babies

Hyperthyroidism can cause premature birth or low birth weight babies. Sometimes, the baby might develop hyperthyroidism if the thyroid antibodies cross the placenta.

Hypothyroidism During Pregnancy

Also called underactive thyroid, hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid glands produce too little hormone, slowing your metabolism and affecting other body functions. 

Complications in Mother

Hypothyroidism increases the risk of miscarriage, anemia, preeclampsia, and placental abruption. It can also make you more prone to preterm labor. 

Hypothyroidism during pregnancy can lead to the child being deprived of thyroid hormone, which might affect their brain development and overall growth. These babies are also likely to be born smaller than usual. 

Complications in Babies

Some babies may also develop cognitive issues and learning difficulties later in life. Although rare, hypothyroidism can lead to stillbirth.

How is Thyroid Treated During Pregnancy?

Thyroid treatment in Airoli depends on whether you have an underactive or an overactive thyroid. For hyperthyroidism, your gynecologist may recommend regular monitoring with medication to ensure the levels do not spike excessively. For hypothyroidism, you might need synthetic thyroid hormones in the correct dosage. The goal is to maintain your thyroid levels so that the mother’s and the baby’s hormone requirements are met.

Tips for Managing Thyroid 

Here’s what else you can do to keep your thyroid levels in check:

• Do not skip your medicine doses and take them exactly as prescribed by your physician
• Attend all your follow-up visits
• Have a balanced diet containing iodine 
• Excessive fatigue, even after resting, palpitations, and sudden weight changes must never be ignored.

The thyroid gland might be small, but this butterfly-shaped organ plays a huge role in your baby’s development. If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, visit your doctor and discuss tests to check your thyroid levels.