Question

Why do TSH levels in pregnant women need to be monitored?

Answer 1

Monitoring the TSH level during pregnancy:

1. Thyroid hormones are essential for normal fetal .development.
2. It helps in the baby's brain and nervous system development.
3. During the first trimester, the baby is dependent mother's thyroid hormone supply.
4. The fetus's thyroid begins to function at around 12 weeks.
5. It is not until 18 to 20 weeks of pregnancy.
6. Human chorionic gonadotropin and estrogen, are two pregnancy-related hormones.
7. They cause high thyroid hormone levels in the mother's blood at the time of pregnancy.
8. It leads to hyperthyroidism.
9. This causes developmental disorders in the unborn child.
10. High thyroid secretion results in miscarriage.
11. Hence, the TSH level should be monitored during pregnancy.