Thyroid disorders during pregnancy

Abstract

Thyroid disorders are common in women during pregnancy. If left untreated, both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are associated with adverse effects on pregnancy and fetal outcomes. It is important to correctly identify these disorders and treat them appropriately to prevent pregnancy-related complications. Levothyroxine is the indicated treatment for hypothyroidism, and thionamides are the treatment of choice for hyperthyroidism; thyroidectomy may be indicated in select cases. When thyroid cancer is diagnosed during pregnancy, a decision must be made regarding performing thyroidectomy during the pregnancy or postponing surgical resection until the postpartum period. Radioactive iodine is absolutely contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation.