Thyroid Function Alteration During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the body undergoes significant hormonal changes that affect thyroid function. The growing fetus needs thyroid hormones for development, prompting the mother’s thyroid gland to increase hormone production. Additionally, levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) can stimulate the thyroid, possibly leading to increased hormone levels. This adaptation is crucial for both the mother’s health and the baby's growth. However, it can also reveal or exacerbate existing thyroid problems, making monitoring and appropriate care important throughout pregnancy to ensure both the mother's and baby's well-being.