Thyroid dysfunction during pregnancy and in postpartum period: treatment and latest recommendations

Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2014 May;289(5):1137-44. doi: 10.1007/s00404-014-3159-y. Epub 2014 Feb 9.

Abstract

Thyroid dysfunction is the second most common endocrine disorder, only after diabetes mellitus, affecting females in reproductive age group. Pregnancy is associated with profound repercussions on the thyroid status of a lady. Thyroid dysfunctions such as hypothyroidism, thyrotoxicosis and thyroid nodules may develop during pregnancy leading to abortion, placental abruptions, pre-eclampsia, preterm delivery and reduced intellectual function in the offspring. Thus, maintenance of euthyroid state is of utmost important for maternal and fetal well being during pregnancy as well as after. The Endocrine Society has issued latest guidelines regarding the diagnosis and management of thyroid dysfunction related to pregnancy. All the clinicians should be well aware of the latest recommendations regarding management of thyroid dysfunction in pregnancy and in postpartum phase and practice them accordingly.

MeSH terms

  • Abortion, Spontaneous
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypothyroidism / complications
  • Hypothyroidism / therapy
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Postpartum Period
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • Pre-Eclampsia
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / diagnosis*
  • Pregnancy Complications / therapy*
  • Premature Birth
  • Societies, Medical
  • Thyroid Diseases / complications
  • Thyroid Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Thyroid Diseases / therapy*
  • Thyroid Hormones / metabolism
  • Thyroid Hormones / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Thyroid Hormones