Thyroid problems: what impact on pregnancy and fertility?

Oct 12, 2023 | Last news, Thyroïd

thyroid impact on pregnancy and fertility

VOUS POURRIEZ ÉGALEMENT AIMER CES ARTICLES

Damage to the thyroid gland can cause overproduction (hyperthyroidism) or underproduction (hypothyroidism) of thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). In addition to causing various disabling symptoms, such conditions can have a negative impact on fertility as well as on the ability to carry a pregnancy to term. Focus on the link between pregnancy and thyroid disorders.

Thyroid and infertility

Thyroid disorders are among the most common endocrine disorders in women of reproductive age. They manifest themselves by hormonal changes that affect menstrual cycles and ovarian activity. In term, this can cause an obstacle to fertility.

Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism are two thyroid diseases that can affect fertility in women. In people with hyperthyroidism, a greater sensitivity to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRh) is usually observed. As a consequence, the secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) – which is responsible for a high level of estrogen – is more important. Women who are in this case can see their menstrual cycles disrupted, and some of them can even get their period several times in a month.
Hypothyroidism could also be responsible for troubles in conceiving. Indeed, as this condition gives rise to an abnormal elevation of the TSH level, it increases the intensity and frequency of menstruation, which can lead to an absence of ovulation. In order to increase the chances of conceiving in women of childbearing age, the American Thyroid Association recommends maintaining a TSH level below 2.5 mU/l.

Can a woman get pregnant after thyroidectomy?

According to specialists, thyroidectomy does not harm fertility, provided that the intervention took place in good conditions and that the patients have good postoperative care. Today, advanced medical technologies such as the FLUOBEAM® LX device offer more precision to practitioners during the surgery. The parathyroid glands are detected by autofluorescence during the operation, which makes the surgical gesture more precise.

Thyroid disorders during pregnancy

During the first four months of pregnancy, the pregnant woman’s thyroid plays a major role. Indeed, it ensures the good development of the future baby’s brain by giving it the necessary amount of hormones rich in iodine. All along the pregnancy, women’s thyroid activity is closely monitored. This is done to detect as early as possible hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, which could lead to harmful consequences on the mother and the future baby.

Hyperthyroidism during pregnancy

Hyperthyroidism is defined as an excessive production of thyroid hormones. Pregnant women with this condition suffer severe nausea and intense fatigue. They also frequently feel that their heart beats really fast, which can be worrying. As for the fetus, risks of prematurity, stunted growth and neurodevelopmental disorders are to be feared. In case of hyperthyroidism, a special diet is usually prescribed by doctors.

Hypothyroidism during pregnancy

Unlike hyperthyroidism, in hypothyroidism the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. This condition is manifested, in most cases, by dry skin, significant weight gain and a feeling of slow heartbeat. Goiter can also occur due to iodine deficiency. The consequences of hypothyroidism can be serious. Indeed, if this condition is not detected on time, the unborn child is exposed to the risk of delayed psychomotor and intellectual development. Once the patient takes the prescribed medication, a careful monitoring of hypothyroidism is important. Regular blood tests will be prescribed for this purpose during and after pregnancy.

How are thyroid problems treated in pregnant women?

During pregnancy, radioactive iodine treatments are not recommended. On the other hand, synthetic antithyroid drugs and beta-blockers are prescribed in order to restore hormonal balance. A work stoppage for pregnant women and rest are also highly recommended.

The administration of these treatments is subject to close monitoring because of a possible interaction with the fetus.

How can thyroid disorders be prevented during pregnancy?

During pregnancy and outside pregnancy, thyroid disorders can be detected easily. As part of a self-diagnosis, the following symptoms should alert the patient:

 

  • A sudden and unexplained thirst
  • Rapid and significant weight loss despite an unchanged appetite
  • An important heat sensitivity
  • Hot flashes and excessive sweating
  • Mood disorders
  • Insomnia
  • Hyperactivity
  • Stress and anxiety
  • An increase in the volume of the neck which could be due to goiter
  • Bulging eyes
  • An increase in stool frequency
  • Diarrhea
  • Palpitations
  • Tremors
  • Decreased frequency of periods or the absence of periods

As soon as a thyroid disorder is suspected, a thyroid check-up is prescribed. Its purpose is to control TSH levels.

Current health recommendations recommend early screening of women at high risk of developing thyroid disorders during pregnancy. Thus, women with a personal or family history of thyroid disorders, diabetes or autoimmune diseases are subject to increased monitoring for nine months.

As soon as a thyroid disorder is suspected, a thyroid check-up is prescribed. Its purpose is to control TSH levels.

Current health recommendations recommend early screening of women at high risk of developing thyroid disorders during pregnancy. Thus, women with a personal or family history of thyroid disorders, diabetes or autoimmune diseases are subject to increased monitoring for nine months.



Good to know

The right management of thyroid disorders can improve the care of the pregnant woman and her future baby during pregnancy and post pregnancy.



Women with thyroid disorder can become pregnant and carry a pregnancy to term, provided that these conditions are well taken care of. During pregnancy, monitoring of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism is important to ensure the good health of the mother and her future baby.

Warning

In accordance with the law, we inform you that this page is intended for health professionals.

or