Pregnant women experience elevated levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone crucial for nourishing and protecting the fetus, and estrogen. Estrogen increases the synthesis of proteins that transport thyroid hormones. The increase in hCG stimulates the thyroid, making it more active.

Doctor Tran Huu Thanh Tung, from the Endocrinology - Diabetes Department at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, explains that during pregnancy, the thyroid increases hormone production by 50%, and thyroid volume can increase by 10-40% depending on the pregnant woman's iodine intake. The lower the iodine, the greater the increase in thyroid volume.

Pregnant women can develop hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. The most common cause is gestational transient thyrotoxicosis, a temporary increase in thyroid activity during pregnancy, primarily in the first trimester. Thyroid hormone levels usually return to normal after the 14th-16th week of pregnancy. Pregnant women may also experience hyperthyroidism due to Graves' disease. Hypothyroidism in pregnant women typically occurs due to iodine deficiency, medication, or autoimmune thyroiditis.

Thyroid disorders during pregnancy can be dangerous for both mother and baby, especially when the condition has no clear symptoms and can be easily mistaken for normal morning sickness. If left undetected and untreated, thyroid disorders in pregnant women can lead to preeclampsia, miscarriage, stillbirth, and postpartum hemorrhage. The fetus may experience slow intrauterine growth, premature birth, or congenital hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.

Pregnant women are prone to thyroid disorders. Image generated by AI.

Pregnant women should closely monitor any unusual health signs and have regular check-ups. If experiencing symptoms such as persistent rapid heartbeat, palpitations, shortness of breath, fatigue, facial and eyelid swelling, especially in the morning, high blood pressure, headaches, hand tremors, heat intolerance (hyperthyroidism), or cold intolerance (hypothyroidism), they should consult a doctor for an examination. Depending on the cause, symptoms, and the patient's health condition, an endocrinologist will determine the appropriate treatment for hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.

To prevent thyroid hormone disorders, Dr. Tung recommends women undergo thyroid function tests when planning pregnancy or during pregnancy. He also advises a balanced diet with iodine-rich foods, except in cases of hyperthyroidism. Maintaining a relaxed mindset, limiting stress, and adhering to regular prenatal check-ups are also essential. Women with a personal or family history of thyroid disease should be closely monitored for thyroid function during and after pregnancy, as should their babies.

Bach Duong