Can congenital hypothyroidism lead to childbirth

Patients with congenital hypothyroidism are usually able to conceive, but their thyroid function needs to be controlled within the normal range under the guidance of a doctor. Abnormal thyroid hormone levels during pregnancy may affect fetal intellectual development, and risks need to be managed through regular monitoring, medication adjustments, nutritional supplementation, prevention of complications, prenatal diagnosis, and other measures.

1. Regular monitoring

Patients need to have their thyroid stimulating hormone and free thyroxine levels checked every 1-2 months before pregnancy, and increased to once a month after pregnancy. The demand for thyroid hormones may increase in early pregnancy and gradually stabilize in the middle and late stages of pregnancy. When the test results are abnormal, the dosage of levothyroxine sodium should be adjusted in a timely manner to maintain TSH within the pregnancy specific reference range.

2. Medication adjustment

Levothyronine sodium is the preferred medication for treatment and should be taken on an empty stomach to avoid food interference with absorption. The dosage of medication usually needs to be increased after pregnancy, and in some patients, the dosage may increase by more than 30% in the early stages of pregnancy. Medication adjustments must strictly follow medical advice and should not be adjusted on one's own to avoid recurrence of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.

3. Nutritional supplementation

Adequate iodine intake should be ensured daily, and iodine rich foods such as iodized salt and kelp can be consumed. At the same time, supplementing folic acid to prevent fetal neural tube defects is recommended to be taken daily starting from 3 months before pregnancy. Properly increase the intake of high-quality protein and vitamins to avoid excessive consumption of cruciferous vegetables affecting thyroid function.

4. Prevention of Complications

uncontrolled hypothyroidism may increase the risk of gestational hypertension, placental abruption, and other conditions. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, urinary protein, and fetal development is required. If symptoms such as abnormal fetal movement and worsening edema occur, seek medical attention immediately. Maintaining a good daily routine and moderate exercise can help reduce the probability of complications.

5. Prenatal diagnosis

NT ultrasound examination is required for 11-13 weeks of pregnancy, and Down syndrome screening is required for 16-20 weeks. Elderly or high-risk pregnant women may consider non-invasive DNA testing. Newborns need to undergo routine heel blood screening after birth. Early detection of congenital hypothyroidism can be treated promptly to avoid intellectual impairment.

Patients with congenital hypothyroidism should undergo a comprehensive thyroid function assessment before planning pregnancy, and maintain monthly endocrine and obstetric follow-up during pregnancy. Daily attention should be paid to avoiding excessive fatigue and maintaining emotional stability. If there are symptoms of hyperthyroidism such as palpitations and hand tremors, or worsening symptoms of hypothyroidism such as drowsiness and constipation, timely follow-up is necessary. Medication should still be taken during lactation, but the amount of medication secreted through breast milk is minimal and does not affect the safety of breastfeeding.