Thyroid Disease During Pregnancy

Thyroid disease can pose a risk to you and your baby during pregnancy. However, with close monitoring and proper medical treatment, you can reduce these risks and have a healthy baby.

Throughout your pregnancy, your doctor will regularly check the levels of thyroid hormone in your body to be sure they are at healthy levels. Though many of the medications used to treat thyroid disease are safe for your unborn child, your doctor will also closely monitor your baby throughout your pregnancy.

If you have a history or symptoms of thyroid disease and are thinking of becoming pregnant or are pregnant already, it is important to talk to your doctor.

Risks of Hypothyroidism

For Your Baby:

• Smaller than normal birth weight
• Preterm birth (born before 37 weeks of pregnancy)
• Decreased mental ability

For You:

• Preeclampsia
• Placental abruption

Risks of Hyperthyroidism

For Your Baby:

• Smaller than normal birth weight
• Preterm birth
• Possible death
• Hyperthyroidism

For You:

• An irregular heartbeat or heart failure
• Thyroid storm