How to Reduce Thyroid During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a beautiful experience for women wanting to enjoy motherhood. For some this rollercoaster ride is all about tackling the hormonal imbalance in their body. Amidst all the changes thyroid-related issues are at the peak!

It is essential to keep an eye on the thyroid, its symptoms, causes, and certain tips to control it. Keep reading to know more about it.

What is the thyroid, and where is it located?

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland that is responsible for making and releasing certain hormones in the body. The main work of the thyroid gland is to control the metabolism and energy of the body. It is located in the front of the neck below the Adam’s apple.

Symptoms of the thyroid during pregnancy

Certain signs and symptoms linked with the thyroid may appear as normal signs during pregnancy. However, it can make the thyroid issue go undetected. At every step of pregnancy, monitoring even minor changes in your body becomes necessary.

Some of the common symptoms include –

• Weight gain
• Constipation
• Dry skin and hair
• Swelling on the face
• Tiredness
• Anxiety
• Sleep apnea

Causes of thyroid during pregnancy

Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is the most common thyroid problem experienced during pregnancy. Different causes of hypothyroidism during pregnancy include –

• Deficiency of Iodine 

Less or inadequate intake of iodine during pregnancy phase can lead to hypothyroidism. Iodine is an important component in the production of the thyroid gland.

• Certain medicines

Some medications during pregnancy can disrupt the production of thyroid hormones which can cause hypothyroidism.

• Pituitary disorder

In some cases, pituitary disorder in the body can lead to hypothyroidism.

• Autoimmune thyroiditis

This is an autoimmune disorder, known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis that damages the thyroid gland and leads to hypothyroidism.

• Previous radiation therapy or thyroid surgery 

Some women may develop hypothyroidism, who have undergone radiation therapy or have removed their thyroid gland.

Does the thyroid affect the baby?

Yes! Thyroid hormones in the body play an essential role in the brain development of a baby. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) during pregnancy can result in the birth of a low-IQ baby. 

Other health issues in the baby include lack of red blood cells, dwarfism, less weight, and lack of oxygen in the body.

In the majority of the cases, women who are suffering from thyroid fail to conceive naturally. In this condition, it is always advised to consult with an experienced fertility expert.

Effective tips to control the thyroid during pregnancy

Following certain methods to control the thyroid during pregnancy is crucial. Here are some simple and effective tips-

• Medications

There are many medicines available in the market for controlling the thyroid during pregnancy. Always seek the advice of your gynecologist before taking any medicine during the pregnancy phase.

• Dietary changes

During pregnancy, you are advised to make certain changes in your diet to control the thyroid level in the body. Certain dietary modifications include –

• Use coconut oil – Coconut helps in balancing TSH levels in the body. It holds certain anti-inflammatory and stress-relief properties that will eventually help keep your body calm during pregnancy time.
• Intake salads and herbal tea – Include plenty of salads and herbal tea in your diet to reduce the chances of thyroid. In salad, you can add carrots and cucumber. Many fertility experts advise drinking certain herbal teas like cinnamon, ginger, or green tea rather than tea and coffee.
• Avoid cabbage, broccoli, and kale – Exclude these vegetables in your diet as their utilization can lead to major thyroid production in the body. 
• Include apple cider vinegar – It is the ultimate choice that helps in controlling the production of thyroid. Seek the advice of your gynecologist regarding the quantity.
• Eat almonds – Almonds play a vital role in regulating the thyroid function. It contains fiber, protein, and certain minerals.

• Regular exercise

Other than taking medications and making some diet modifications it is also very important to include a few exercises in your daily schedule. It is always advisable to consult with your gynecologist and fitness trainer before performing any exercise.

• Lifestyle changes

Making certain lifestyle changes can also help in controlling thyroid levels in the body. Some of the lifestyle adjustments include sound sleep, regular check-ups, and stress management. 

Conclusion

In many cases, during regular pregnancy checkups, a female was found to be having thyroid as there were hardly any symptoms. It is always advisable to stay in touch with your gynecologist during pregnancy. Moreover, you can also follow the above-mentioned tips to control the thyroid during pregnancy.