Thyroid diseases in pregnancy: a review

Abstract

Objective: To provide an overview of the pathophysiology of thyroid diseases in pregnancy and the various treatment methods currently available in its management.

Data source: Review of literature was affected through index medicus search of major published journals and books.

Data selection: Published data on thyroid diseases on women in the reproductive age group over the last four decades were utilised.

Data extraction: Abstracts and full text of selected manuscripts were read and analysed to determine their contribution to this article.

Data synthesis: All relevant articles were reviewed and contributions extracted.

Conclusion: Thyroid diseases are the second most common endocrinopathies in pregnancy. Numerous hormonal changes and metabolic demands occur in pregnancy resulting in complex changes in maternal thyroid function. Thyroid diseases involves a multidisciplinary team approach to achieve good metabolic control and excellent obstetric care in order to ensure normal maternal and perinatal outcome.