women s health issues
Thyroid Disorders During Pregnancy
Postdelivery thyroid disorders
In the first 6 months after delivery, the thyroid gland may become underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism). Postdelivery thyroid disorders are more common among women who have Goiter Close family members with hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism caused by an autoimmune reaction Hashimoto thyroiditis Type 1 diabetes If women have any of the above risk factors, doctors measure levels of thyroid hormones during the 1st trimester and after delivery. Thyroid disorders that develop after delivery are usually temporary but may require treatment. A disorder called painless thyroiditis with transient hyperthyroidism may develop suddenly in the first few weeks after delivery. It is probably caused by an autoimmune reaction. This disorder may persist, recur periodically, or steadily worsen. 