Introduction : There are several important issues that must be considered when hypothyroidism occurs during pregnancy or when women with preexisting treated hypothyroidism become pregnant. Thyroid dysfunction affects 2–3% of pregnant women. Pregnancy specific reference ranges are required to define thyroid conditions in pregnancy and to guide treatment. Overt maternal hypothyroidism is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes; thyroxine treatment should be commenced immediately in this condition.
Thyroxine treatment has also been shown to be effective for pregnant women with subclinical hypothyroidism who are thyroid peroxidase antibody positive. Clinical manifestations — The range of clinical symptoms of hypothyroidism during pregnancy is similar to those that occur in non pregnant women and may include fatigue, cold intolerance, constipation, and weight gain. Symptoms may be…
