Hypothyroidism is a condition which is characterized by an under-active thyroid gland. It is more common in women and the chances of a woman developing hypothyroidism are increased during pregnancy and after childbirth.
Some of the symptoms include weight gain, fatigue, hair loss, heavy or irregular menstruation, constipation and depression. Unfortunately, many of these symptoms are similar to symptoms which are common during pregnancy and as a result the disease is often undetected.
At the initial stage of pregnancy, the unborn baby depends on the thyroid hormones of the mother, and if the mother is hypothyroid this can have a devastating effect on the development of the fetus. Untreated hypothyroidism in a pregnant woman can lead to premature delivery and may result in developmental delay in a child.
In order to avoid hypothyroidism during pregnancy, the following steps are very important;
1). If you are at risk of developing hypothyroidism, you should consult a doctor and be tested when you are planning a pregnancy.
2). You should undergo thyroid screening when you intend to get pregnant.
3). You should be regularly tested before pregnancy if you are on thyroid hormone replacement.
The above mentioned steps will ensure early diagnosis which will provide you with access to treatment as early as possible. Once you are diagnosed with hypothyroidism, proper treatment should begin which usually include thyroid hormone therapy. This treatment is safe and with no side effect on both the mother and the unborn child.
If you are already on thyroid hormone medication, you should have blood test done regularly in order to measure the level of your TSH and T4. Ensure that you take your medication as prescribed by your doctor.
In addition to medication, you can also engage the use of natural treatment to control your hypothyroidism during pregnancy. These natural remedies are very simple to use, inexpensive and more importantly there are no risk of side effects to the mother and the fetus.
To learn more about these Natural Remedies For Hypothyroidism in order to control your hypothyroidism during pregnancy visit http://www.squidoo.com/natural-remedies-for-hypothyroidism
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Willie_Aris
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5680715
