Thyroid Guide for Moms-to-Be

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You’ve probably gotten your thyroid checked before, but do you know why it’s so important to keep tabs on this particular gland?

What is the Thyroid?

Your thyroid, a small butterfly-shaped organ located in the neck, plays a crucial role in your health, especially during pregnancy. This gland is responsible for producing two main hormones: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones are key to maintaining metabolism, energy production, and other essential functions such as brain development, heart rate regulation, and temperature control.

Thyroid Diseases While Pregnant

Thyroid disorders are fairly common during pregnancy, ranking as the second most common endocrine condition after diabetes [1]. During pregnancy, your body undergoes hormonal changes to support fetal growth and development, which can also affect thyroid hormone levels. It’s important to monitor your thyroid to promptly detect any abnormal fluctuations.

A family history of thyroid disease can increase the risk of a pregnant woman developing thyroid issues, and may be a sign for extra vigilance during thyroid monitoring. 

There are two main dysfunctions of the thyroid, known as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism:

A hyperthyroid occurs when the thyroid gland produces an excess of hormones [2]. About 1 in 100 people in the U.S. will develop hyperthyroidism, especially among women. Common symptoms to watch out for include:

  • Unexplained weight loss

  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat

  • Nervousness or anxiety

  • Increased sensitivity to heat

  • Fatigue and muscle weakness

  • Tremors

  • Changes in menstrual patterns

A hypothyroid, on the other hand, happens when the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones [3]. Around 1 in 20 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with a hyperthyroid. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include:

  • Fatigue and weakness

  • Weight gain

  • Cold intolerance

  • Dry skin and hair

  • Constipation

  • Depression and mood swings

  • Irregular menstrual cycles

What are the Risks of Thyroid Disease While Pregnant?

Untreated thyroid disease during pregnancy can lead to unwanted complications such as:

  • Gestational Hypertension: Thyroid dysfunction may contribute to high blood pressure during pregnancy, increasing the risk of preeclampsia.

  • Preterm Birth: Pregnant women with untreated thyroid conditions may be more prone to preterm labor and delivery.

  • Miscarriage: Thyroid disorders can elevate the risk of miscarriage, particularly during the first trimester.

  • Fetal Development Issues: Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in fetal brain development. Untreated thyroid disease has been shown to sometimes impact the baby’s neurological development [4].

Managing Thyroid Health Medically and Naturally

  1. Get your thyroid tested regularly, especially if you have a personal or family history of thyroid conditions.

  2. Check with your healthcare professional if medical intervention (such as synthetic thyroid hormones) is necessary to treat your thyroid dysfunction.

  3. Maintain a balanced diet with plenty of iodine, selenium, and other essential nutrients for optimal thyroid function. 

    Selenium helps reduce thyroid antibodies and inflammation. Eating a brazil nut every day is a great way to incorporate this mineral into your diet. 

    Iodine is needed to make thyroid hormones, and a deficiency in this mineral is linked to thyroid diseases [5]. A great way to keep up a regular intake of iodine is through raw dairy, seaweed, and seafood.

  4. If you have any food intolerances, removing triggering foods such as gluten, eggs, or dairy is very important to your thyroid health.

  5. Lower your stress levels to keep your thyroid hormone levels in balance. Try relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga to help manage stress.

  6. Try home remedies to support your thyroid health if you have the green light from your practitioner. Some common home remedies include: Evening primrose oil for anti-inflammatory properties, coconut oil for medium-chain fatty acids, or vitamin A for thyroid hormone synthesis.

Long story short, thyroid health is extremely important for pregnant women as it directly impacts both maternal and fetal well-being. By managing thyroid health with the help of healthcare professionals and adopting a balanced lifestyle, women can ensure a healthier pregnancy and a better start for their little ones!