Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
Can Low Thyroid Levels During Early Trimester Affect The Fetus?
Hello, I'm 12-weeks pregnant and yesterday, my doctor said my thyroid levels came back low from my blood test and will be starting me on a low dose of thyroid meds. I know it's pertinent for a fetus to have thyroid hormones from the mother until around the 12th week of pregnancy. I was wondering what the likelihood of my baby being born healthy and with no developmental delays (from the lack of thyroid hormones in the last 12 weeks) are. Any thoughts, please??
I am 31, 5'4, 170 lbs., and am healthy otherwise.
I am 31, 5'4, 170 lbs., and am healthy otherwise.
Mon, 6 Jul 2015
Welcome to HCM! I have understood your concern.
Low thyroid levels indicate low functioning of Thyroid gland. This condition may affect the baby in different ways; effect on intellectual development of the baby or even abortions are also known to occur. If baby develops Hypothyroidism resulting into swelling of thyroid gland, there can be difficulty in delivery also.
With low thyroid functioning, even you may face health problems like lethargy, mood swings, low appetite, etc.
Please follow your doctor's advice and take the thyroid medicine that is prescribed to you. By taking the medicine with proper monitoring of TSH levels, your baby will not have ill effects.
I hope, this has given you good amount of confidence.
Low thyroid levels indicate low functioning of Thyroid gland. This condition may affect the baby in different ways; effect on intellectual development of the baby or even abortions are also known to occur. If baby develops Hypothyroidism resulting into swelling of thyroid gland, there can be difficulty in delivery also.
With low thyroid functioning, even you may face health problems like lethargy, mood swings, low appetite, etc.
Please follow your doctor's advice and take the thyroid medicine that is prescribed to you. By taking the medicine with proper monitoring of TSH levels, your baby will not have ill effects.
I hope, this has given you good amount of confidence.
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Recent questions on Thyroid
Loading Online Doctors....