Thyroid in Pregnancy: Common Risks, Symptoms & How to Stay Healthy
By Dr. Alekya Reddy V – Consultant Endocrinologist
Sridhaa Heart & Endocrine Super Specialty Clinic, Hasthinapuram, Hyderabad

Introduction
Pregnancy is a time of many changes in a woman’s body—and the thyroid gland plays a major role in supporting a healthy pregnancy. But when the thyroid doesn’t work properly, it can affect both the mother and the baby.

At Sridhaa Heart & Endocrine Super Specialty Clinic, we often see expecting mothers unaware of how crucial thyroid health is during pregnancy. In this blog, you’ll learn about the risks, signs, and ways to keep your thyroid—and your pregnancy—on track.

What Is the Thyroid and Why Does It Matter During Pregnancy?

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in your neck that produces hormones responsible for regulating metabolism, energy, and growth. During pregnancy, your body needs more thyroid hormones to support your baby’s brain and nervous system development.

If your thyroid levels are too low (hypothyroidism) or too high (hyperthyroidism), it can lead to complications.

Common Thyroid Problems During Pregnancy
Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
Occurs when the thyroid doesn’t make enough hormones.
Causes: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (autoimmune condition), iodine deficiency
Risks: Miscarriage, preterm birth, developmental delays in baby, high blood pressure

Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
Occurs when the thyroid produces too much hormone.
Causes: Graves’ disease (autoimmune), thyroid nodules
Risks: Low birth weight, premature delivery, preeclampsia, fast heart rate in baby

Signs & Symptoms to Watch For Symptoms of Hypothyroidism:

• Fatigue and excessive sleepiness
• Constipation
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Cold intolerance
• Depression or low mood
• Dry skin, hair thinning

Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism:

• Rapid heartbeat
• Unexplained weight loss
• Heat intolerance
• Anxiety or nervousness
• Tremors in hands
• Trouble sleeping

Note: Some of these may overlap with normal pregnancy symptoms, so regular thyroid testing is important.

Why Early Thyroid Testing Is Important in Pregnancy
Many women enter pregnancy with undiagnosed thyroid disorders. That’s why leading health organizations recommend thyroid function tests (TSH, Free T4) for:

• Women with a history of thyroid disease
• Women with symptoms
• Women with infertility or miscarriage history
• Those with Type 1 diabetes or other autoimmune diseases

At Sridhaa Clinic, Dr. Alekya Reddy V ensures comprehensive thyroid screening during the first trimester or earlier, depending on your risk factors.

Managing Thyroid Conditions During Pregnancy
✅ Hypothyroidism Treatment
Treated with levothyroxine (thyroid hormone replacement)

Safe during pregnancy and carefully dosed

Regular monitoring every 4–6 weeks to adjust dosage

✅ Hyperthyroidism Treatment
Managed with anti-thyroid medications

Requires close monitoring to avoid under- or overtreatment

In some cases, symptoms may improve in late pregnancy

Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy with Thyroid Issues

• Take your medication at the same time every day, preferably on an empty stomach
• Don’t skip follow-up tests—thyroid levels can change trimester to trimester
• Eat a balanced diet rich in iodine, selenium, and zinc
• Avoid self-medication—some supplements may interfere with thyroid function
• Share any new symptoms with your endocrinologist right away

You’re Not Alone – We’re Here to Help
Thyroid conditions in pregnancy are common, but they’re manageable with expert care. With the right treatment and regular monitoring, most women with thyroid problems go on to have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.

At Sridhaa Heart & Endocrine Super Specialty Clinic, Dr. Alekya Reddy V provides compassionate, specialized care for expectant mothers with thyroid concerns. From diagnosis to delivery, we’re with you every step of the way.

Visit Us for Thyroid and Pregnancy Care
Sridhaa Heart & Endocrine Super Specialty Clinic
📍 Address: Plot No. 230, 2nd Floor, Nagarjuna Colony
Landmark: Beside Baker Q, Nagarjuna Sagar Rd, Hasthinapuram South, Hyderabad, Telangana – 500070
📞 Phone: 088976 87373