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Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics

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01-01-2013 | Maternal-Fetal Medicine

Thyroid (dys-)function in normal and disturbed pregnancy

Authors: Brigitte K. Budenhofer, Nina Ditsch, Udo Jeschke, Roland Gärtner, Bettina Toth

Published in: Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics | Issue 1/2013

Abstract

Introduction

During pregnancy, physiologic changes in maternal thyroid function take place especially due to hormonal as well as metabolic processes. Human chorionic gonadotropin activates the maternal thyroid gland leading to increased thyroid hormone production. A sufficient availability of maternal thyroid hormones is essential for fetal development, especially during the first trimester of pregnancy, when the fetal thyroid gland is not yet functional.

Materials and Methods

Current knowledge of thyroid dysfunction including thyroid autoimmunity, hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism is summarized with special focus on miscarriage and pregnancy disorders. Therefore, a Medline research as well as an analysis of current guidelines on thyroid function and pregnancy was performed.

Results

A study focusing on TSH levels in normal and disturbed pregnancies, the risk of miscarriage in association with thyroid autoantibodies, and (subclinical) hypothyroidism in infertile and fertile women were included.

Conclusion

Maternal thyroid dysfunction negatively affects pregnancy outcome. Besides a routine iodine supplementation in pregnant women and treatment of hypo as well as hyperthyroidism, TSH levels should routinely be measured in women during childbearing years and adjusted to concentrations <2.5 mIU/l in order to optimize maternal health and fetal development.

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Title: Thyroid (dys-)function in normal and disturbed pregnancy
Authors: Brigitte K. Budenhofer
Nina Ditsch
Udo Jeschke
Roland Gärtner
Bettina Toth
Publication date: 01-01-2013
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics / Issue 1/2013
Print ISSN: 0932-0067
Electronic ISSN: 1432-0711
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-012-2592-z

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Thyroid (dys-)function in normal and disturbed pregnancy

Abstract

Introduction

Materials and Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Materials and Methods

Results

Conclusion

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