Researchers at the Mayo Clinic published a study on the relationship between hypothyroidism and pregnancy. Pregnancy because it produces important changes in hormone levels. Among them is the TSH, the hormone that is responsible for the stimulation of the thyroid and whose levels often decrease during pregnancy. Where, however, the hormone exceed 2.5 mIU / L, it has to do with the so-called subclinical hypothyroidism. According to the study, if untreated subclinical hypothyroidism increase the risk of miscarriage. The data shows that timely action would have a positive impact of about 15 pregnancies per 100.

The Dr. Maraka team analyzed 18 previous studies on subclinical hypothyroidism cases. The studies involved more than 5,400 pregnant women living with the disease. Of these, 843 had very high levels of TSH and had been treated with thyroid hormones. The other still had higher hormone levels than average, but who did not require specific treatment. By comparing the data of the two groups, the women subjected to the treatment had had 38% of miscarriages in less, albeit with pregnancies often finished before the deadline, and cases of gestational diabetes. This means that TSH levels slightly higher than average untreated are more dangerous to very high levels treated.

The researchers looked for possible side effects due to hormonal treatment. The intake of levothyroxine during pregnancy would result in an increased risk of preeclampsia and gestational diabetes. To get a clearer picture of the situation, however, further studies will be needed. For now, doctors recommend to treat subclinical hypothyroidism starting from 2.5 mIU / L of TSH in the blood. During pregnancy the mother can preserve the health of babies via prenatal screening tests.

Source: mayoclinic.org