Postpartum thyroiditis requires proper care and attention. Here’s how new mothers can recognize and manage thyroiditis after delivery.
Postpartum thyroiditis is a rare condition that affects 5-10% of first-time mothers during the first year after delivery. The inflammation of the thyroid gland caused by this thyroid disorder requires crucial treatment to ensure the health and well-being of postpartum women. This article discusses the different stages of postpartum thyroiditis, the symptoms, and applicable treatment modes.
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Stages of postpartum thyroiditis
Stage 1: Hyperthyroidism – It usually begins within the first 6 months from the date of delivery and can last up to 3 months. During this phase, there is an excessive release of thyroid hormones, so symptoms may include anxiety, hair loss, sudden weight loss, tachycardia and heat intolerance.
Stage 2: Hypothyroidism – It is characterized by a deficit in the production of thyroid hormones and usually begins between 4 and 8 months after delivery. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, depression, dry skin, constipation, muscle pain, decreased lactation, and intolerance to cold. It can last for a year and seriously affect daily life and overall health.
Stage 3: Recovery – In most cases, the thyroid gland is known to return to normal within 12 to 18 months. Most women regain normal function, although in exceptional cases hormone replacement may be necessary.
Preventing postpartum thyroid
According to Dr Nithiyaa Babukumar MBBS, DGO, DNB OG, MNAMS, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospital, Chennai, the severity of the disorder is confirmed by the levels of thyroid hormones in blood tests. Follow-up check-ups are important to monitor the thyroid and to know whether the thyroid gland has returned to normal. Around 80% of women can normalise their thyroid function within 12-18 months and may no longer require treatment, while the remaining 20% may require long-term treatment and hormone replacement.
- Early awareness and recognition: The symptoms and stages of postpartum thyroiditis, if recognized early enough, will certainly help the doctor to make an early diagnosis. These symptoms may include anxiety, weight loss/gain, and fatigue, which are well known to everyone and may prompt you to seek timely medical attention.
- Regular prenatal and postnatal check-ups:Continue your routine prenatal and postnatal checkups with your health care provider. This type of routine follow-up can be helpful in early detection and timely treatment of thyroid disorder before it worsens.
- Consult a health professional:In case of a medical history related to thyroid problems, it is always best to consult a health professional when symptoms of postpartum thyroiditis begin to appear. This is very important because an early consultation can lead to early treatment, thus preventing further worsening of the condition.
Understanding and treating postpartum thyroiditis is crucial to a new mother’s health during the postpartum period and beyond.
