New Delhi: The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped organ in the neck of the human body that plays a very important role in stabilising metabolism, and energy levels, and in maintaining hormonal balance. During pregnancy, its importance becomes paramount as it directly affects the health of both the mother and the developing baby. Thyroid hormones are essential for fetal brain development, particularly in the first trimester when the baby relies entirely on the mother’s thyroid hormones.
In an interaction with News9Live, Dr. Mitul Gupta, Senior Consultant of obstetrics and gynaecology, at Cocoon Hospital, Jaipur, spoke about how thyroid affects a new mom-to-be and how it can affect a newborn.
If thyroid disorders—either hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)—remain untreated during pregnancy, they can cause serious health issues. Untreated hypothyroidism increases the risk of miscarriage, preeclampsia, anemia, and preterm delivery. Mothers might experience fatigue, weight gain, and depression. Other than this, hyperthyroidism results in high blood pressure, heart failure, and placental abruption. For the baby, hypothyroidism leads to developmental delays, low birth weight, and congenital hypothyroidism, while hyperthyroidism can cause fetal growth restriction, stillbirth, or neonatal thyrotoxicosis.
Untreated thyroid disorders during pregnancy can have unknown long-term effects, particularly on the child’s cognitive and neurological development. Children born to mothers with poorly managed thyroid conditions usually face difficulties in learning, memory, and attention. For mothers, untreated thyroid issues can lead to postpartum thyroiditis and chronic thyroid disorders, impacting overall health.
Expectant mothers must ensure that thyroid health becomes a crucial part of prenatal care. Routine thyroid function tests should be covered with prenatal checkups, especially for women with a history of thyroid disorders. Thyroid hormone replacement (for hypothyroidism) or antithyroid medications (for hyperthyroidism) should be carefully adjusted under medical supervision. Periodic thyroid function tests ensure that hormone levels remain within the recommended range.
Self-care measures are equally essential. A balanced diet that includes iodine-rich foods like dairy and seafood, selenium from nuts, and zinc to support thyroid function is crucial. Limiting foods like soy and cruciferous vegetables, which may interfere with thyroid function, can be beneficial. Managing stress through yoga, meditation, and ensuring adequate rest helps maintain hormonal balance. Keeping yourself well-hydrated is also important for overall metabolic health.
A carefully maintained thyroid health ensures a healthy pregnancy. With prompt checkups, proper health management, and self-care, expectant mothers can remove risks associated with thyroid disorders.
Untreated thyroid disorders during pregnancy can have unknown long-term effects, particularly on the child’s cognitive and neurological development. Children born to mothers with poorly managed thyroid conditions usually face difficulties in learning, memory, and attention. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
