Thyroid Gland Research Paper

Thyroid gland is a small butterfly shaped organ which is located in the neck. This is an endocrine gland which produces, stores and secrets two very important hormones T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). These hormones are chemical messengers for various cellular functions and mainly regulate the metabolism and energy consumption of the body, affecting all body organs and systems.

Does Thyroid Affect Pregnancy?

It is very important to understand the proper function of thyroid gland to understand how does thyroid affect pregnancy. A normal functioning thyroid gland is essential for fertility. An under active or overactive thyroid gland can reduce your chances of getting pregnant. Thyroid function is also crucial to maintain the pregnancy. …show more content…
The menstrual cycle can get disturbed if the thyroid gland is over or under active. An over active thyroid gland is termed as or hyperthyroidism and an underactive thyroid gland is known as hypothyroidism, both conditions lead to an imbalance of thyroid hormones which is responsible for decreased chances of conception due to irregular ovulation.

Hypothyroidism and Fertility

An underactive thyroid gland is known as hypothyroidism. When thyroid hormones are not produced in adequate amounts, the ovaries do not release eggs. This decreased ovulation is one of the main reasons for infertility associated with under active thyroid. Some medical conditions like certain autoimmune and pituitary disorders result in hypothyroidism and also reduce fertility. Thyroid function test is normally part of the infertility work up.

The chances of getting pregnant get better with thyroid hormone replacement therapy. If the infertility persists even after correction of hypothyroidism, further investigations and interventions are recommended.

Hyperthyroidism and …show more content…
Does thyroid affect pregnancy? The answer is yes, most definitely. An underactive and untreated thyroid gland puts you at a greater risk for miscarriage in early stages of pregnancy. Women who have hyperthyroidism and are not treated are also more likely to have a miscarriage.

How Does Hypothyroidism Affect Pregnancy?

Metabolic demands of the body increase during pregnancy and extra thyroid hormones are required to meet the metabolic needs of the growing body and the developing baby. Normally the thyroid gland makes more hormones during pregnancy to support the baby. If a woman has already got an undiagnosed underactive thyroid gland, the hormone levels can drop significantly and there can be significant symptoms of hypothyroidism.

· Symptoms of hypothyroidism

The most significant symptoms of hypothyroidism are weight gain and extreme tiredness, which can be missed, because pregnancy itself leads to both of these. Other symptoms of an underactive thyroid are:

Lack of concentration and memory problems
Constipation
Cramps
Cold intolerance
Hypothyroidism must be treated; even a mild condition can lead to serious complications during pregnancy such as miscarriage, pre mature birth, preeclampsia, placental abruption, and anemia. There are chances of excessive blood loss during and after

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