Hypothyroidism
It is a condition where TSH levels are high and T3,T4 levels are low.
Symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Forgetfulness
- Dry skin & hair
- Weight gain
- Depression
- Cold sensitivity
Hypothyroidism &it’s effects in pregnancy:-
Maternal effects:
- Anaemia
- Preeclampsia
- Placental abnormalities
- Low birth weight
- Pre-term deliveries
- PPH (post partum haemorrhage
- Myopathy (muscle pain &weakness)
Foetal effects :
- Cognitive impairment
- Developmental abnormalities
- Neurological abnormalities
- Congenital hypothyroidism
- Hyper bilirubinemia
- Respiratory distress
Medication:
250 mcg of iodine is required in pregnancy.Tab.levothyroxin is the treatment for hypothyroidism. It is recommended to increase the dose of levothyroxin by 30% once pregnancy is confirmed. If hypothyroidism is detected only during pregnancy , levothyroxin can be stopped post delivery and advised to check TSH after 6 weeks post delivery.
Tip for pregnant ladies:
Prenatal vitamins like iron and calcium should not be taken at the same time with levothyroxin and should be taken separately with a gap of at least 4 hrs.
