Thyroid Diseases in Pregnancy: Why is it Important for the Health of Mother and Baby?

Pregnancy is a very special time when the expectant mother undergoes many changes, both physically and hormonally. While the various organs and systems of the body adapt to the new situation, the role of the thyroid gland is vital. The function of the thyroid gland is a critical element that directly affects the health of both the mother and the unborn baby. In this article, we will discuss in detail the relationship between pregnancy and thyroid disorders and explain why this is so important for expectant mothers.

Duties of the Thyroid Gland

The thyroid gland is a small but extremely important organ located in the front of the neck. This gland secretes hormones that regulate metabolism, energy production and growth and development processes in the body. Thyroid hormones are involved in many critical functions ranging from balancing body temperature to brain function. During pregnancy, these hormones are indispensable for the healthy development of not only the mother but also the baby.

Importance of Thyroid Functions in Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the expectant mother's need for thyroid hormones increases. One of the most important reasons for this is that the baby cannot yet develop its own thyroid gland in the first weeks. While the thyroid gland begins to form in a baby in the womb at week 12, it does not secrete hormones until week 18. During this time, the mother supplies all the thyroid hormones the baby needs. These hormones are of great importance for the baby's neurological development, mental development and general organ function.

Thyroid hormones support the development of the baby's brain and nervous system, as well as the healthy formation of other organs. Therefore, ensuring that the mother has adequate thyroid hormone levels during pregnancy is a critical factor for the healthy development of the baby. Especially during the first 18-20 weeks of pregnancy, the mother's thyroid hormone levels should be closely monitored.

Hypothyroidism The Most Common Thyroid Problem in Pregnancy

The most common thyroid disease during pregnancy is hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland cannot produce enough hormones. This condition carries serious risks for both mother and baby. Hypothyroidism can be detected by tests before pregnancy or by examinations in the first weeks of pregnancy. Unfortunately, many women may not realize that they have hypothyroidism until they are pregnant.

In the case of hypothyroidism, the mother's metabolism slows down, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, cold sensitivity, depression and dry skin. During pregnancy, the condition can lead to serious complications such as premature birth, miscarriage, pre-eclampsia (pregnancy toxicity), low birth weight and developmental delay in the baby.

Hypothyroidism Treatment in Pregnancy

In pregnant women diagnosed with hypothyroidism, thyroid hormone levels are strictly monitored and hormone supplementation is initiated when necessary. The most commonly used medication is levothyroxine, which helps to balance thyroid hormones. This medicine replaces the missing thyroid hormone in the body, thus protecting the mother's health and providing the necessary hormones for the baby's development.

Especially in the first trimester of pregnancy, i.e. the first three months, TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) levels should not exceed 2.5 mIU/L. A TSH level above this value is considered a sign of hypothyroidism and treatment is initiated. During this process, expectant mothers should regularly use the medications recommended by their doctors and have their thyroid hormone levels checked regularly.

Hyperthyroidism in Pregnancy: Rare but Important

Although not as common as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, i.e. excess hormone production by the thyroid gland, is also an important problem during pregnancy. Hyperthyroidism manifests itself with symptoms such as palpitations, excessive sweating, weight loss, irritability and insomnia. Treatment is also important in this case because if hyperthyroidism is left untreated, it can lead to miscarriage, premature birth, pre-eclampsia and developmental disorders in the baby.

The medications used to treat hyperthyroidism during pregnancy are aimed at reducing the production of thyroid hormones and the dosage of these medications should be carefully adjusted. In addition, it is essential to be under the supervision of a doctor during the treatment process because some thyroid medications used during pregnancy may adversely affect the health of the baby.

Thyroid Tests in Pregnancy: When Should They Be Done?

It is very important for women who are planning a pregnancy or who have a suspicion of thyroid disease during pregnancy to have their thyroid function checked. Especially those with a family history of thyroid disease, those who have had thyroid disease before or those who experience symptoms before pregnancy should definitely consult their doctor.

Thyroid tests during pregnancy are usually done in the first trimester. However, expectant mothers diagnosed with hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism may need to be checked more frequently. TSH and free T4 levels are monitored at regular intervals and the treatment plan is adjusted according to changes in hormone levels.

Thyroid Diseases and Things to Consider During Pregnancy

There are some points that pregnant women with thyroid disease should pay attention to:

1. Regular Follow-up: Thyroid hormone levels should be monitored regularly and necessary medications should be used under the supervision of a doctor.
2. Nutrition: Attention should be paid to iodine intake, which plays an important role in the production of thyroid hormones. Iodine deficiency during pregnancy can negatively affect the health of both the mother and the baby.
3. Stress Management: Expectant mothers with thyroid disease should get support in coping with stress and seek specialist help when needed. Stress can negatively affect thyroid function.
4. Drug Use: The dosage of thyroid medication used during pregnancy should be adjusted under the supervision of a doctor and taken regularly. Changing the dosage on your own or stopping the medication can have serious consequences.

A New Beginning: Take Care of Your Thyroid for a Healthy Pregnancy

Thyroid diseases are one of the serious health problems that can be encountered during pregnancy. However, with the right diagnosis and treatment, these diseases can be controlled and the health of both mother and baby can be protected. Women who are planning a pregnancy or who experience thyroid problems during pregnancy should be in regular communication with their doctors and closely follow the treatment processes. Thyroid hormones must be in balance for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. Therefore, it is vital for both expectant mothers and their babies to have their thyroid function checked regularly during pregnancy and to take the necessary precautions.