Youth and beauty 

Thyroid gland in pregnant women. Thyroid disease and pregnancy. Lecture for doctors. How to avoid thyroid disease - preventive measures

Thyroid and pregnancy is a special issue that concerns every woman who is expecting or planning a child. The thyroid gland is an organ that, due to unfavorable environmental conditions, is often exposed to various diseases.

The structure and features of the thyroid gland

The thyroid gland is an organ located in front of the neck and resembling a butterfly. Its weight in an adult is normally 21 grams. Despite its small size, the thyroid gland produces hormones that are vital for the body.

They affect metabolic processes, mental development and physical state. Triiodothyronine, thyroxine are hormones produced by the gland. Iodine is a trace element responsible for the functioning of the body. Thanks to it, hormones are synthesized in the right volumes, the processes of metabolism of minerals, lipids, proteins and vitamins proceed as standard. The hormones of the gland affect intrauterine development.

Among all the pathologies observed in pregnant women, thyroid diseases occupy a leading position. That is why doctors recommend carefully monitoring the condition of this organ, systematically examining the hormonal level.

In the fetus, the thyroid gland is formed at the sixth week of development. Starting from the 3rd month of the child's formation, the gland accumulates iodine and produces hormones. It depends only on the mother how fully the child will develop. Despite the fact that his thyroid gland is actively working, its functioning requires a constant supply of iodine from the outside.

During pregnancy, 200 micrograms of a microelement should enter the body. With a lack of iodine, diseases occur, both in the woman herself and in her child. Therapy of diseases of the gland during the period of gestation is carried out by sparing methods. However, there are indications in which doctors strongly recommend terminating a pregnancy.

Planning and thyroid

In preparation for conception, the gland plays important role. The success of gestation depends on its condition and the level of hormones produced. Before pregnancy, it is important to take tests, do an ultrasound of the organ.

During planning, attention should be paid to thyroid-stimulating hormone. Its performance should be within 2.5 μIU / ml. If the results exceed the norm, then you should definitely consult a doctor. The specialist will conduct treatment, prescribe a diet with a high content of iodine in foods. Only after the normalization of the hormonal background is it permissible to plan conception.

Pathology of the gland and the course of pregnancy

During the restructuring of the body, some diseases of the gland occur. female body, faced with a double load, is not always able to cope on its own. The main pathologies that often occur during the gestation period:

  • fetal pathology: incorrect location, absence or underdevelopment of the gland;
  • goiter that occurs with a lack of iodine, unfavorable ecology;
  • Graves' disease;
  • hypothyroidism - low activity of the gland;
  • thyroidins - inflammatory processes;
  • tumors.

A slight increase in the gland during pregnancy is considered normal. At the same time, experts recommend only sticking to a diet rich in iodine. Unfortunately, there are some pathological conditions that can directly or indirectly have a significant impact on the expectant mother and child.

These include:

  1. gland enlargement

    Despite the fact that a change in the size of the thyroid gland under the influence of hormones is considered the norm, there are a number of diseases that can cause a similar reaction of the organ. There are degrees of enlargement of the gland, to which specialists turn Special attention:

    • a slight increase that does not affect the well-being of a woman;
    • change in the contours of the neck, when swallowing, the lobes of the organ are clearly visible;
    • with the naked eye, an increase in the thyroid gland is noticeable, the neck becomes much thicker, shortness of breath occurs, pain appears when swallowing;
    • a strong increase in the organ, the contours of the neck change, the lobes of the gland are clearly visible, there is a cough, perspiration, pain when swallowing food;
    • pain during breathing and swallowing, which does not allow these processes to be carried out normally. Change in the timbre of the voice or its disappearance.

    Any stage is subject to mandatory control from the endocrinologist.

  2. Crayfish

    At timely diagnosis and properly conducted therapy, cancer will not affect the health of the child. The danger of pathology lies in the fact that on initial stages it proceeds without specific symptoms. The same signs of the disease that occur are very easy to confuse with toxicosis in the initial stages.

    The disease can be diagnosed by ultrasound, aspiration biopsy, blood tests. Failure of the hormonal background does not affect the course of the disease.

    Pregnancy after an oncological disease is permissible only if the therapy was successful. Even with complete removal glands, conception is possible. Only after a few years after cancer treatment, as well as rehabilitation, doctors are allowed to plan a pregnancy. Bearing will be successful only if there are no relapses. If at the beginning of pregnancy they occur, then the woman should interrupt the gestation.

  3. Cyst

    Hormonal failure can cause the formation of cysts on the gland. It is difficult to diagnose the disease, since the cysts are small and develop without symptoms.

  4. Goiter

    The main symptom of pathology - the neck becomes thicker. Experts have such types of goiter:

    • with eufunction - rare;
    • with hypofunction - develops due to autoimmune diseases and iodine deficiency;
    • with hyperfunction - observed in Basedow's disease and adenoma.
  5. Absence of a gland

    Not a contraindication to conception. The main condition is the use of hormonal medications that stabilize the background. Monitoring of gestation by the endocrinologist is mandatory.

  6. Knots

    Subdivided into:

    • malignant - require therapy;
    • benign - do not affect the health of the child and the course of pregnancy.
  7. Adenoma

    This is a benign tumor that develops in the tissues of the gland. Pathology is characterized by excessive production of thyroid hormones. Symptoms:

  8. Hyperplasia

    Symptoms:

    • difficulty swallowing food;
    • occurrence on the neck vascular network;
    • breathing problems.

    Salt enriched with iodine is the main method of preventing the disease.

  9. hypoplasia

    Only 2% of women have this pathology. The disease is considered congenital. Therapy is carried out with the use of iodine-containing drugs.

  10. Hypothyroidism

    The main cause of the disease is a lack of iodine. Pregnant women are advised to systematically take tests to determine the level of hormones. When not enough produced hormones, maintenance therapy with special drugs is carried out.

    It is necessary to treat the disease during gestation, since the lack of hormones in sufficient quantities can lead to the birth of a baby with various pathologies, and the death of the fetus.

  11. Autoimmune thyroidin

    With hormonal changes, this pathology often occurs. Symptoms:

    • the appearance of a goiter;
    • dizziness;
    • irritability;
    • nausea.

The thyroid gland and pregnancy are closely related. Only following the recommendations of the doctor will allow you to endure healthy child and save own health. Early diagnosis occupies an important place. Only timely detection of pathology makes it possible to reduce the risks associated with insufficient or excessive intake of hormones.

The thyroid gland is responsible for many metabolic processes in the body. In particular, its influence on the ability to conceive, bear and form a full-fledged fetus is great. Hormones thyroid gland in pregnant women are produced in greater quantities than in ordinary woman. The first changes occur a few weeks after fertilization. Therefore, you should know what tests for thyroid hormones to take during pregnancy in order to reduce the risk of complications in pathology.

Important! During pregnancy, the formation of the nervous system and the internal organs of the embryo depends on the thyroid hormones of the thyroid gland.

What happens in the body of a pregnant woman

In the normal state, thyrotropin is a stimulant of thyroid activity. With the onset of pregnancy, the work of the organ of the endocrine system is also affected by chorionic gonadotropin synthesized by the placenta. In the first weeks, there is an increase in the level of hCG, which suppresses the production of TSH. Stabilization occurs closer to 4 months.

Quite often, an excess of thyroid hormone levels during pregnancy contributes to the occurrence of transient hyperthyroidism.

Note: similar condition characteristic of the conception of more than one embryo. In this case, it is necessary to differentiate with a diffuse form of toxic goiter.

Thyroid hormones during pregnancy are directly dependent on estrogen. Their number increases, which contributes to the production of thyroxin-binding protein in the liver. Binding of the thyroid group - main factor its deactivation.

Symptoms

With an increase in thyroid hormone levels during pregnancy, thyrotoxicosis is diagnosed. This may cause:

  • cardiovascular disorders;
  • anomalies in the development of the fetus;
  • genetic predisposition of the child to thyroid diseases;
  • premature birth.

Typical complaints in pathology:

  • malaise;
  • slight hyperthermia;
  • irritability;
  • sleep problems;
  • hand tremor;
  • increased sweating;
  • tendency to diarrhea.

The norm of thyroid hormones during pregnancy is:

thyroid-stimulating hormone:

  • 1st trimester - 0.2–0.4 mIU / l;
  • 2nd - 0.3–2.8 mIU / l;
  • 3rd - 0.4–3.5 mIU / l.

Other hormones:

The code Name Units Reference values
Immunological studies
Thyroid group
3.1 ttg μIU/ml 0.4 - 4.0 Pregnant 0.2-3.5
3.2 TK general nmol/l 1,3-2,7
3.3 TK free pmol/l 2,3-6,3
3.4 T4 general nmol/l 54-156
Pregnant 1 tr 100-209
Pregnant women 2.3 tr 117-236
3.5 T4 free pmol/l 10,3-24,5
Pregnant 1tr 10.3-24.5
Pregnant 2.3tr 8.2-24.7
3.6 thyroglobulin ng/ml
3.7 thyroxine-binding globulin nmol/l 259-575,5
3.8 A/t to thyroglobulin μIU/ml
3.9 A/t to thyroid peroxidase μIU/ml
3.10 A/t to TSH receptor A PIECE OF CHALK
1.8 - 2.0 borderline
>2.0 positive

Indicators of the content of thyroid hormones.

Lack of thyroid hormones during pregnancy leads to hypothyroidism. Clinical manifestations:

  • muscle cramps;
  • pain in the joints;
  • memory impairment;
  • depressive state;
  • dry skin;
  • nausea;
  • tendency to constipation;
  • intense hair loss.

Note: with hypothyroidism, women during the gestation period, as a rule, gain excess weight. In this case, appetite may be reduced or completely absent.

Diagnostics

Hormonal insufficiency is fraught with serious consequences, both for the health of the mother and for the child. Among the most common complications:

  • placental abruption;
  • hypertension;
  • premature birth;
  • spontaneous miscarriage;
  • stillbirth;
  • mental, physical underdevelopment;
  • heavy postpartum bleeding.

When planning a pregnancy or registering, you should definitely consult an endocrinologist. If necessary, examinations will be scheduled:

  • blood test for thyroid hormones in pregnant women - free T4, TSH, antibodies to TPO;
  • Ultrasound of the thyroid gland;
  • puncture biopsy (with nodular formations more than 1 cm in diameter).

Note: radioisotope techniques, scintigraphy are contraindicated due to the significant harm of ionizing radiation.

Some women thyroid during pregnancy may malfunction, because immediately after conception internal organs and systems are rebuilt for new functions, there is a change in their work. If a pregnant woman notices that the thyroid gland has become enlarged or uncharacteristic processes have begun to occur in the body, it is better to inform the doctor about this, and not wait for the situation to resolve itself. timely health care help to avoid complications and safely carry the baby to due date.

Features of the functioning of the body during pregnancy

Pregnant women already initial term changes in the functioning of the endocrine system. This connection is due to the fact that for the normal bearing of a child, the body requires a greater amount of certain hormones. It is the thyroid hormones during pregnancy, the indicators of which become slightly more than normal, affect the formation of brain cells of the unborn baby. Therefore, already in the first weeks, the thyroid gland in a woman becomes enlarged, and hormonal background elevated.

If for some reason there is a disruption of the endocrine gland, this negatively affects the laying of important organs and systems of the fetus. Until the 12th week, he does not have his own thyroid gland, therefore, the body that begins growth and development is deficient in specific hormones. Often, with a sick thyroid gland, a woman is diagnosed with a frozen pregnancy or there are permanent miscarriages.

Types of disorders, their causes and symptoms

hyperfunction

A slight increase in the thyroid gland in the early lines is considered to be the norm.

Enlargement of the thyroid gland early term bearing a child physiological norm during pregnancy. But there are situations when the endocrine organ increases much more, which is a sign of a disease called hyperthyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Most often, this pathology begins to develop against the background of another systemic disease- . If the hormones T3, T4 are elevated, this negatively affects the future fetus. In such a situation, the doctor prescribes medication. With absence positive results conservative therapy is surgical removal of the thyroid gland not earlier than in the 2nd-3rd trimester.

An enlarged thyroid gland and an increased production of specific hormones primarily affect the well-being of a woman in position. As the pathology progresses, the following symptoms begin to disturb:

  • a sharp decrease in body weight with the usual diet;
  • lump and feeling as if pressing in the throat;
  • weakness, fatigue, insomnia, anxiety;
  • arterial hypertension;
  • tachycardia;
  • causeless jumps in body temperature;
  • digestive problems, lack of appetite, stomach pain;
  • protrusion of the eyeballs, unnatural luster.

Hypofunction

Illness causes disruption prenatal development fetus.

Not less than dangerous consequences, affecting the health of the expectant mother and child, causes hypothyroidism, in which there is a reduced production of hormones. But this condition is rarely diagnosed in pregnant women, because often pregnancy with hypothyroidism of the thyroid gland is impossible. Iodine deficiency due to hypofunction adversely affects functioning reproductive system. Therefore, even before pregnancy, the girl does not have menstruation or menstruation is irregular.

Reduced production of hormones is accompanied by such manifestations:

  • a sharp, unreasonable increase in body weight;
  • drowsiness, weakness, distraction, inattention, memory problems;
  • excessive dryness of the skin;
  • stratification of nails, hair loss;
  • hypotension;
  • dyspnea;
  • swelling.

Diagnostics

Laboratory diagnostics help control the course of the disease.

Since the influence of the thyroid gland on pregnancy is enormous, if the thyroid gland is enlarged more than normal or its hypofunction is observed, it is necessary to undergo a diagnosis. Decoding and results will enable the doctor to determine a further plan of action. Therefore, if a woman has pathological signs, and in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe thyroid gland it hurts, pulls or presses, you should not postpone a visit to the endocrinologist.

Main diagnostic methods, not threatening fetus even 1 week after conception - laboratory tests for hormones and ultrasound. The hormone TSH during pregnancy in the region of the 2nd trimester increases, its level is 0.2-3.0 mU / l. Ultrasound of the thyroid gland during pregnancy will show which proportion is affected, whether there are pathological nodes in the organ. Be sure to carry out differential diagnostics, which will help to exclude such dangerous pathologies:

  • medullary carcinoma;
  • (AIT);
  • hyperplasia.

Treatment

Since thyroid diseases and pregnancy are interrelated, and dysfunction of the endocrine system can cause problems with conceiving and bearing a child, to prevent the consequences immediately after diagnosis, a complex drug therapy. An endocrinologist will treat thyroid diseases. Modern drugs help maintain hormonal levels within normal limits, as well as eliminate negative symptoms.

Scheme drug treatment individual.

If hypothyroidism is diagnosed, in which thyroid hormones are low, hormone replacement therapy is performed. When prescribed drugs of the thyreostatic group. All medicines are selected taking into account the position of the woman, so that the treatment does not affect the development of the fetus. In some situations, when, for example, thyroid cancer is diagnosed, AIT or conservative methods are powerless, it is necessary to treat the pathology surgically. Any type of operation is carried out no earlier than in the 2nd trimester. Depending on the degree of damage, the thyroid gland can be removed completely or partially.

Pregnancy after removal of the thyroid gland is quite possible. The functions of the remote thyroid gland will be performed by hormone replacement therapy, with the help of which the work reproductive organs will be able to save.

The thyroid gland is very important when planning a pregnancy. It is from the state of the glandula thyroidea and the hormones produced by it that the success of conception and pregnancy depends. Depends on the quality of the hormones produced by the thyroid gland physical development the future baby and the level of intelligence. That is why, during the planning period for pregnancy, the first task of a woman is to take tests to determine the hormonal level of the thyroid gland and make ultrasound procedure to determine if the organ is functioning normally.

When planning pregnancy, special attention is paid to the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone, which should not exceed 2.5 μIU / ml. If the tests showed that the level of the hormone is higher than the specified value of the norm, then this is a reason to contact an endocrinologist. The doctor will prescribe medical therapy to normalize hormone levels. Very often, as a treatment, diets are prescribed with the use of products with high content iodine. After the results of the glandula thyroidea hormone tests are normal, you can plan a pregnancy.

Thyroid disease and pregnancy

Thyroid disease and pregnancy are interrelated. Diseases appear due to hormonal adjustment organism and negative impact environment. Let's look at the main thyroid diseases during pregnancy.

  • Pathologies at birth - underdeveloped thyroid gland, absence of the thyroid gland, incorrect location.
  • Goiter (endemic, sporadic) - occurs due to a lack of iodine in the body or the negative influence of the environment. Graves' disease also belongs to these diseases.
  • Thyroiditis - inflammatory diseases glandula thyroidea.
  • Hypothyroidism is a disease that is accompanied by a decrease in thyroid function.
  • Damage and tumors of the thyroid gland.

If a woman is absolutely healthy, then during pregnancy, thyroid disease does not affect her. The only thing that is expected is an increase in the thyroid gland, but this is considered normal, so it should not cause concern. But despite this, it's better once again make sure that the glandula thyroidea is healthy and pregnancy is not in danger.

Enlarged thyroid during pregnancy

An enlarged thyroid during pregnancy is considered normal. The thyroid gland increases in size due to hormonal changes in the body and with elevated work. But do not forget that the increase this body may be associated with a number of diseases. This is true for women who had diseases of glandula thyroidea before bearing a child. Let's look at the pathologies that occur during pregnancy and cause an increase in the thyroid gland.

  • Hypothyroidism - occurs due to a violation immune systems s organism and is considered chronic disease. It is difficult to diagnose this disease during childbearing. Since the symptoms of the disease largely coincide with the signs of pregnancy. Therefore, if this disease is suspected, it is necessary to take a blood test and, based on its results, judge the level of glandula thyroidea hormones.
  • Thyrotoxicosis is a disease that occurs due to increased activity of the thyroid gland and is accompanied by an increase in this organ. In pregnant women, this disease is extremely rare. The main symptom of the disease is severe vomiting and enlargement of the eyeballs. For an accurate diagnosis of the disease, it is necessary to take tests for thyroid hormones. If a woman became pregnant and she already had this disease, then there is high risk for the child and the normal course of pregnancy.

An enlarged thyroid gland during pregnancy can change under the influence of hormones or due to a certain disease. That is why, during the planning of pregnancy, a woman must undergo a diagnosis of glandula thyroidea, and, if necessary, treatment.

Thyroid enlargement during pregnancy

Thyroid enlargement during pregnancy normal process, which occurs under the influence of hormones and increased work of the thyroid gland. But the increase can also be caused by diseases. Let's look at the degrees of enlargement of the thyroid gland that a woman can expect during the period of bearing a child.

  • The thyroid gland looks quite normal, slightly enlarged, but does not cause discomfort or painful symptoms.
  • The contours of the neck are changed, when swallowing, the lobes of the thyroid gland are clearly visible.
  • An enlarged thyroid gland is visible to the naked eye, the neck has become thicker, it hurts to swallow, shortness of breath has appeared.
  • Glandula thyroidea is greatly enlarged, the contours of the neck are changed, and lobes of the thyroid can be traced on its surface. It hurts to swallow, tormented by a feeling of sore throat and cough.
  • In the last stage, the thyroid gland is so enlarged that it makes it impossible to swallow and breathe. Also, the voice may change or disappear.

Each of the above stages of thyroid enlargement during pregnancy should be examined by an endocrinologist for the presence of diseases.

Thyroid cancer and pregnancy

Thyroid cancer and pregnancy recent times increasingly sounds like a sentence. But don't go to extremes, because right approach to the diagnosis of cancer and treatment, you can endure and give birth healthy baby. The danger of thyroid cancer during pregnancy is that in the initial stages the disease is almost asymptomatic, and the symptoms that appear are similar to the symptoms of pregnancy at an early stage.

To diagnose thyroid cancer during pregnancy, ultrasound, a blood test to detect cancer cells, and an aspiration biopsy, which can be used to determine the presence of cysts or cancerous nodules in the glandula thyroidea, are used. note that hormonal changes during pregnancy, they do not stimulate the development of cancer, and differentiated cancers do not adversely affect the course of the period of bearing a child.

Pregnancy after thyroid cancer

Pregnancy after thyroid cancer is possible only after successful treatment diseases. Modern techniques endocrine cancer treatments allow women to become pregnant even if glandula thyroidea is removed. Pregnancy can only be planned a year or two after cancer treatment and after undergoing rehabilitation. Successful pregnancy guaranteed in the absence of recurrence of the disease.

If the disease begins to recur in the first months of bearing a child, the woman should terminate the pregnancy. Exceptions are women who have been treated with thyroidectomy. If after cancer came long-awaited pregnancy, and the disease does not recur, then the woman should still be regularly tested for cancer cells and conduct an ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland.

Thyroid cyst and pregnancy

Thyroid cyst and pregnancy are interrelated, since the appearance of a cyst can provoke hormonal changes that occur in the female body. A thyroid cyst during pregnancy can also appear due to a lack of iodine. And this is not surprising, since during the bearing of a child, the female body lacks vitamins, minerals and necessary for normal functioning. female body and child development substances.

Another reason for the appearance of a cyst is trauma and inflammation (thyroiditis). But sometimes even nervous experiences and overexertion can cause cysts to form. Diagnosing a thyroid cyst is quite difficult, since the cyst is small and develops almost asymptomatically. The cyst begins to manifest itself only when enlarged and squeezed. neighboring bodies. A woman may feel itching, difficulty breathing and coughing, and sometimes difficulty swallowing. One of the complications that accompanies a thyroid cyst during pregnancy is suppuration, which occurs due to weakened immunity.

Thyroid goiter during pregnancy

Thyroid goiter during pregnancy is another common disease that occurs in many women. The main symptom of goiter glandula thyroidea is its enlargement and thickening of the neck. Goiter is a collective concept, which is understood as diseases of the thyroid gland, the main symptom of which is its increase. During childbearing, goiter may appear due to hormonal disorders and diseases that affect the endocrine system.

There are several types of goiters that occur during childbearing, let's look at them:

  • Goiter with eufunction - during pregnancy is extremely rare. As a rule, this disease is diagnosed on early stages endemic goiter.
  • Goiter with hypofunction - occurs due to iodine deficiency in the body and autoimmune diseases of the thyroid gland.
  • Goiter with hyperfunctions - occurs with thyroid adenoma or Basedow's disease.

Thyroid deficiency and pregnancy

The absence of the thyroid gland and pregnancy are quite comparable concepts. If a woman underwent removal of the thyroid gland due to cancer and another disease, then pregnancy can be planned no earlier than a year after the rehabilitation course and the absence of recurrence of the disease. If all the above conditions are met, then pregnancy is possible subject to regular monitoring of the level of thyroid hormones in the blood. This will allow timely response to their increase and other pathological processes.

Please note that an acute lack of thyroid hormones when it is removed negatively affects the bearing of a child. That is why, during pregnancy, a woman should consume hormonal preparations, which will make up for the lack of hormones produced by glandula thyroidea.

Thyroid nodules and pregnancy

Thyroid nodules and pregnancy can be diagnosed during an ultrasound. As a rule, thyroid nodules occur even before bearing a child, but are diagnosed only when early signs of pregnancy appear (toxicosis, vomiting, nausea, dizziness, and more). Thyroid nodules can be benign or malignant. Benign formations do not affect the course of pregnancy and the development of the child, and malignant ones require mandatory treatment.

But do not worry, since the appearance of glandula thyroidea nodes is never a reason to terminate a pregnancy. The only thing that awaits a woman is regular monitoring of the condition of the nodes, testing and receiving safe drugs, which will not allow nodes to progress during pregnancy.

Thyroid adenoma and pregnancy

Thyroid adenoma and pregnancy are quite compatible. Adenoma is a benign tumor that appears in the tissues of the thyroid gland. The disease is accompanied by increased production of thyroid hormones. This blocks the normal functioning of the glandula thyroidea. The main symptoms of the disease: excessive sweating, fatigue physical activity, abrupt change mood, nausea. As you can see, the symptoms are the same as early signs pregnancy. This is what complicates the diagnosis of adenoma.

Thyroid adenoma is not a fatal disease and does not affect the course of pregnancy. Very rarely, the adenoma develops into malignant tumor and metastasizes throughout the body. If an adenoma was diagnosed in a pregnant woman, then during all nine months the woman should be observed by an endocrinologist.

Hyperplasia of the thyroid gland during pregnancy

Hyperplasia of the thyroid gland during pregnancy is accompanied by an increase in the thyroid gland. The disease occurs due to problems with hormones, which is very important for the period of pregnancy. The main symptoms of the disease: shortness of breath, the appearance of a vascular network on the neck, problems when swallowing food. If these symptoms are detected, it is necessary to contact an endocrinologist.

To diagnose hyperplasia in pregnant women, an ultrasound examination is performed, which helps to identify the disease. To treat this pathology during pregnancy, women are prescribed drugs with a high content of iodine. As a prevention of the disease, it is recommended to take iodized salt with food.

Hypoplasia of the thyroid gland and pregnancy

Hypoplasia of the thyroid gland and pregnancy are rare, usually in 2% of pregnant women. The disease is congenital, and is an underdevelopment of the tissues of the glandula thyroidea. All this leads to a lack of hormones that depress the nervous system and brain activity. Very often, the cause this disease is a lack of iodine in the body.

I diagnose the disease with the help of ultrasound and visual examination (the thyroid gland is slightly enlarged). As for treatment, during pregnancy, a woman is prescribed drugs with a high content of iodine. This allows pregnancy to develop normally and does not adversely affect the development of the child.

Hypothyroidism and pregnancy

Hypothyroidism and pregnancy are not uncommon these days. The disease provokes a lack of iodine in the body. Therefore, during pregnancy, a woman should take a blood test for the level of glandula thyroidea hormones. If the tests show that the woman has reduced thyroid function, then hormone replacement therapy is used as a treatment. The main causes of the disease are associated with the level of hormones and inflammation of the thyroid gland.

Treatment of hypothyroidism during pregnancy is extremely important, as the disease can lead to termination of pregnancy medical indications, death of the fetus in the womb, or the birth of a child with serious pathologies. In women who had hypothyroidism during pregnancy and did not treat it, babies are born with visual impairments, damage to the brain and nervous system, or deafness.

Autoimmune thyroiditis and pregnancy

Autoimmune thyroiditis and pregnancy are interrelated, since the disease appears due to hormonal changes in the body. The disease occurs due to the inability of the immune system to recognize diseased and healthy cells. Because of this, the thyroid gland is affected by an autoimmune effect, which can adversely affect the period of pregnancy and the development of the baby.

The main symptoms of autoimmune thyroiditis are similar to the early signs of pregnancy. First of all, it is nausea, irritability, dizziness, as well as an increase in the volume of the glandula thyroidea, that is, the appearance of a goiter. As a treatment, medical therapy is used, which is based on taking drugs with a high content of iodine to maintain hormones at a normal level.

Thyroid hormones during pregnancy

Thyroid hormones during pregnancy perform one of the most important functions - they contribute to the normal development of the brain in a child. Reduced level hormones leads to pathological processes during pregnancy and various lesions of the nervous system and brain activity of the child. Let's look at the features of the functioning of the glandula thyroidea and the production of its hormones during the period of bearing a child.

  • During pregnancy, the thyroid gland works twice as hard and produces 50% more thyroid hormones.
  • Normal performance hormones during pregnancy are no different from tests in non-pregnant women.
  • During pregnancy, the thyroid gland increases by 15% and there is a high risk of developing hypothyroidism.

The influence of the thyroid gland on pregnancy

The influence of the thyroid gland on pregnancy is based on the production of hormones and their influence on the course of pregnancy and the development of the child. The production of hormones is regulated by the central nervous system, pituitary and hypothalamus. That is, with their lesions, problems with the production of glandula thyroidea hormones and the appearance of various diseases are possible.

To determine the disease, diagnostics are carried out using ultrasound and a blood test for hormones is taken. Based on the results of the diagnosis, the endocrinologist and gynecologist make decisions regarding treatment (for hormonal disorders) or prevention of the thyroid gland and its effect on pregnancy.

Ultrasound of the thyroid gland during pregnancy

Thyroid ultrasound during pregnancy compulsory procedure for every woman. With the help of ultrasound, you can find out about the presence of certain diseases that will negatively affect both the health of the mother during pregnancy and the development of the child. Ultrasound refers to non-invasive diagnostic methods, since during the study, the pregnant woman is not subjected to surgical or any other effects. With the help of ultrasound, a photograph is taken that shows the structure of the thyroid gland, which means that tumors and other painful processes are visible.

The procedure does not require special preparation. The only thing necessary for a normal ultrasound examination is full access to the neck. That is why a woman should be in clothes that do not cover her neck and preferably without jewelry. Ultrasound of the thyroid gland during pregnancy is performed in the first trimester and when certain symptoms appear.

Removal of the thyroid gland during pregnancy

Removal of the thyroid gland during pregnancy is not performed, as the procedure can adversely affect pregnancy. If a woman has a disease that requires immediate removal of the thyroid gland for medical reasons, the pregnancy must be terminated. Because of the sudden hormonal fluctuations normal flow pregnancy and child development are at risk.

That is why, during the period of bearing a child, all diseases of the glandula thyroidea are treated by taking the safest drugs for the expectant mother and her child. If a woman becomes pregnant immediately after the removal of the thyroid gland, then most likely she will have a miscarriage due to hormone therapy, which must be completed as the final stage of treatment.

Pregnancy after thyroidectomy

Pregnancy after removal of the thyroid gland is possible, but not earlier than two years after the operation. Such a period will allow for a full rehabilitation course and restore the hormonal background of a woman. After the removal of the thyroid gland, a woman will have to adhere to hormone replacement therapy all her life, and even during pregnancy. Therefore, when planning a pregnancy, a woman should seek advice from a gynecologist-endocrinologist who will observe her throughout the entire period of bearing a child.

Pregnancy after removal of the thyroid gland, as a rule, proceeds without complications, with the condition that the woman fully adheres to medical advice to maintain normal hormonal levels. The hormones of the glandula thyroidea are extremely important for normal development child, therefore future mom should be prepared for extreme difficult period pregnancy.

Thyroid treatment during pregnancy

Treatment of the thyroid gland during pregnancy involves the use of conservative methods. Therapy is aimed at eliminating painful symptoms and alleviating pathological condition. During pregnancy, as a treatment, a woman is waiting for hormone therapy and taking drugs with a high content of iodine, which will allow the unborn child to develop normally.

Treatment of thyroid gland during pregnancy depends on the severity of the disease and its impact on the process of bearing a child. If a woman is diagnosed benign tumor, then I use iodine therapy as a treatment. As for cancers detected during pregnancy, hormonal changes and pregnancy itself do not affect the development of the disease. In any case, the gynecologist-endocrinologist is engaged in the treatment and control of the disease, who prescribes the treatment of the thyroid gland for the woman.

The thyroid gland and pregnancy are interconnected. So, with the normal functioning of the glandula thyroidea, pregnancy proceeds without complications. If a woman has malfunctions and disturbances in the work of this organ, then medical assistance is required, as this can adversely affect the development of the child.

The thyroid gland is popularly called the "thyroid gland", everyone knows that we have this organ, but not everyone understands why we need it. And questions about the thyroid gland during pregnancy arise even more often. Let's try to figure it out.

What it is?

The thyroid gland is an internal organ endocrine system our body. It produces hormones, which include iodine, and is involved in metabolic processes, and is also responsible for the growth of some cells.

By its name, this body already makes it clear all the importance and value for our life. The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck, namely in its lower part. AT normal condition its weight in an adult ranges from 12 to 20 grams, but, for example, in a newborn, it will not exceed 3 grams. In practice, the size and weight of the thyroid gland is individual for each person, and in women, these figures also depend on the menstrual cycle.

Thyroid function?

The main function of the thyroid gland is the production of hormones - thyroxine and triiodothyronine. These are iodine-containing hormones that our body receives along with the food we eat. These two hormones are involved in the metabolic process, or rather, help proteins, fats and carbohydrates to be properly absorbed. In this way, nutrients, coming from the food consumed are converted into energy at the cellular level. Iodine-containing hormones are also involved in the neoplasm of cells, as well as control over the death of old ones, their timely renewal and oxygenation. Equally important are the functions of maintaining constant temperature body and reduce the formation free radicals. We cannot ignore the fact that thyroxine and triiodothyronine help us develop in various directions: physically, mentally and mentally, and therefore are important for us at all stages of life.


The second function of the endocrine organ is the formation and release of the hormone calcitonin into the blood. It helps to absorb calcium, which is necessary for bone formation and is important for muscles and the nervous system.

In general, we can say that the thyroid gland is involved in almost all body processes that allow us not only to exist, but to enjoy life.

Thyroid during pregnancy

During pregnancy, the thyroid gland, like all the internal organs of the expectant mother, is under tremendous stress. Now she needs to provide the necessary hormones not only for the body of a woman, but also for a baby. Therefore, during this period, the thyroid gland increases in size and works more intensively by about 50%. Similarly, to assume that more iodine will be required.


The normal functioning of the thyroid gland is especially important in the first trimester of pregnancy due to the formation and formation of all organs and systems of the fetus. Thus, iodine-containing hormones are actively involved in the creation of the nervous and immune systems of the embryo, brain cells and other important processes, and also deliver oxygen to the baby and contribute to its further development.

At about 4-5 weeks of pregnancy, the formation of the thyroid gland in the unborn child occurs, and at 14-16 weeks it begins to function independently. But do not forget that the iodine necessary for the production of hormones will still come from the mother's body.

If a woman before pregnancy was not registered with an endocrinologist, and she did not have any diseases, then in most cases the pregnancy will proceed normally. In fact, not every organism is able to cope with such loads and in some cases there are malfunctions in the work of this organ.

The most common problem that occurs during pregnancy is the lack of iodine in the body of a pregnant woman to produce required amount hormones. It is solved quite simply: the endocrinologist prescribes an additional intake of iodine-containing drugs (for example, iodomarin 200) or by adjusting the diet.

The case when there is a problem in the production of iodine-containing hormones in the body of a woman before pregnancy is called hypothyroidism. A disease of this nature affects the functioning of the reproductive system and most often leads to infertility. The probability of carrying a healthy baby with such a diagnosis is very small and doctors recommend terminating the pregnancy.

On the other hand, in the first trimester, the expectant mother may face the problem of an excess amount of iodine-containing hormones. In medicine similar phenomenon called hyperthyroidism. Often it is temporary, but still should not be ignored, because. in the future, it can lead to diseases such as diffuse toxic goiter.


Diffuse toxic goiter has many synonyms: Graves' disease, hyperthyroidism, Graves' disease, Flayani, Perry.

Hyperthyroidism is autoimmune disease associated with excessive production of thyroid hormones, which subsequently leads to poisoning of the body.

Symptoms of the disease:

  1. increased sweating;
  2. hand trembling;
  3. insomnia;
  4. cardiopalmus;
  5. irritability;
  6. sudden loss weight;
  7. expansion of the palpebral fissures;
  8. glitter in the eyes;
  9. muscle weakness;
  10. hair loss;
  11. fast fatiguability;
  12. an increase in the thyroid gland in size, etc.

If these symptoms are present, do not refuse to visit the endocrinologist and diagnose. To clarify the diagnosis, it is necessary to undergo an ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland, X-ray or tomography, as well as pass laboratory tests.

Pregnancy with hyperthyroidism


Hyperthyroidism can develop during pregnancy, or it can be acquired before pregnancy. Often, in the case when Perry's disease occurred during pregnancy, the thyroid gland normalizes with the advent of the second trimester and the beginning of the functioning of the fetal thyroid gland.

The presence of diffuse toxic goiter before pregnancy can bring a lot of problems during pregnancy. In the first trimester, due to an increase in the load on the thyroid gland, an exacerbation may occur, and an improvement should be expected in the second trimester. But at improper treatment most women do not improve, but on the contrary, tachycardia occurs and an increased arterial pressure.

For the treatment of Basedow's disease, drugs are prescribed that block or reduce the production of iodine-containing hormones. In doing so, you must choose medicines with a minimum dosage and not affecting the development of the fetus. The drug is stopped immediately after the condition improves. In more running forms necessary surgical intervention which is carried out in the second trimester of pregnancy.

Ignoring the disease and improper treatment of the disease can lead to serious consequences:

  1. premature birth;
  2. underweight fetal body;
  3. cardiovascular disease in a child;
  4. late toxicosis;
  5. high blood pressure;
  6. congenital hypertoriosis;
  7. hypotrophy.

A more successful course of pregnancy with diffuse toxic goiter is noted when detected in the early stages or early pregnancy. In any case, it is impossible to accurately predict the work and behavior of the thyroid gland. Therefore, even after delivery, a woman needs to control the hormonal background and timely diagnose this organ.