How does hyperthyroidism affect pregnancy?

The thyroid gland is an endocrine gland, located in the neck area, which is responsible for regulating both our metabolism and our reaction to hormones .

The main hormones produced by the thyroid are the hormones known as T3 and T4 . On the other hand, hyperthyroidism is when the thyroid works excessively , releasing too many hormones .

How does hyperthyroidism affect pregnancy?

The first thing that needs to be pointed out is that doctors believe that, even if you suffer from hyperthyroidism, you can usually go through a pregnancy , especially when the pregnancy is planned , especially to perform a treatment for the disease before pregnancy, to avoid taking medications that can get to the baby.

In many cases, hyperthyroidism is caused by Graves' disease , an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid, attacking the healthy tissues of the body.

During pregnancy, the main thing will be to control the levels of thyroid hormones regularly, especially during the first 3 months , where the symptoms in the mother could become more noticeable, because the hormonal changes of early pregnancy intensify hyperthyroidism .

In cases where the disease is not controlled or not treated, there may be complications , such as placental abruption, premature delivery, preeclampsia or spontaneous abortion. The problems of hyperthyroidism could also cause the baby to have a low birth weight or also thyroid problems.

Preeclampsia , one of the possible consequences of hyperthyroidism, is a complication of pregnancy in which the blood pressure increases, being able to harm the baby or the organs of the mother, such as the liver or the kidney. Preeclampsia can usually be treated with personal care in the diet or with medication. The important thing, as usual, is to detect it in time .

In cases where hyperthyroidism is caused by Graves' disease, the mother may suffer from a condition known as thyroid storm , which is a crisis in those hormones that puts her life at great risk. Thyroid storm occurs during the first 3 months or after delivery , although it is a very rare condition .

Regarding breastfeeding , there are still doubts, especially regarding medications for hyperthyroidism . However, many mothers decide to breastfeed anyway , since it has been discovered that only a small part of the active ingredients of the drugs are passed on to the baby. The benefits of breastfeeding , say several doctors, could weigh the presence of these drugs, so you probably do not have problems doing so.

How can I know if I have hyperthyroidism or Graves' disease?

The problems of hyperthyroidism are usually detected thanks to the symptoms, although you should always go to the doctor so that the diagnosis is accurate. However, we tell you some of the symptoms:

-Increase in the size of the thyroid gland
-Irritability , anxiety
-Problems sleeping
-Weight loss without diet
-Tremors , problems to face the cold
-Accelerated heart rate
-Fatigue , muscle weakness

On the other hand, Graves' disease , in addition to all the previous symptoms, usually presents particular symptoms that differentiate it from a common hyperthyroidism, which are problems in the eyes , such as swelling or protuberances .

Skin problems , such as redness , thickening or increased pimples are also characteristic of Graves' disease.

In case you think you have or present symptoms of hyperthyroidism or symptoms of Graves' disease , it is important to consult the specialists, who will give you a much more accurate diagnosis and will guide you to find an adequate treatment .

On the other hand, if you want to get pregnant, having hyperthyroidism or Graves' disease, you can do so as long as medical supervision is always present to avoid complications. Pregnancies can be passed without problems if medical recommendations are respected.

Remember that, with the right treatment, doctors can keep hormone levels within the appropriate standards , avoiding future complications.

Although the possible consequences of hyperthyroidism or Graves' disease are threatening or worrisome, in most of the cases the pregnancies occur normally , with healthy babies and strong mothers .

Did you know, before this article, how does hyperthyroidism affect pregnancy ? What other question do you have about it?

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