Peer Reviewed
Feature Article Obstetrics and gynaecology
CPD
Complete 1.5 CPD hours

Recognising and managing thyroid dysfunction in pregnancy

Veronica A Preda, Diana L Learoyd
Go To
CPD
Abstract
During pregnancy the production and metabolism of thyroid hormone change. Appropriate monitoring of thyroid-stimulating hormone levels with trimester-specific reference ranges is essential to avoid adverse effects in the pregnant woman and fetus.
Key Points
  • Thyroid hormone production and metabolism change with pregnancy.
  • Iodine supplementation is advised in most women during pregnancy to meet guideline recommendations for nutritional intake.
  • All women should be screened for thyroid dysfunction using a thyroid-stimulating hormone measurement during early pregnancy. At-risk groups will require more frequent monitoring throughout the pregnancy.
  • Women taking thyroxine replacement before pregnancy will usually require a dose increase of 30 to 50% in the first trimester.
  • Thyroxine replacement should be taken separately to other vitamins, including iron and calcium supplements, because binding can occur, decreasing the efficacy of absorption.
  • It is essential that women with thyroid dysfunction before or during pregnancy be seen by their GP in the postpartum period for follow-up assessment of their thyroid function.

    Picture credit: © iStockphoto/Skynesher. Model used for illustrative purposes only.

Get full access
Subscribe for full access to all articles
Buy this article

Single article purchases are temporarily unavailable due to site maintenance.

If you would like to purchase an article during this time, please email us at [email protected] with the article details and we'll assist you directly. We'll also let you know when online purchasing is available again.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Already a subscriber?