Postpartum thyroiditis needs proper care and attention. Here is how new mothers can recognise and manage thyroiditis after child birth.
Postpartum thyroiditis is a rare condition that affects 5-10% of new mothers in the first year post-childbirth. The thyroid gland inflammation caused by this thyroid disorder requires crucial management to ensure health and wellness among postpartum women. This article explores different stages of postpartum thyroiditis, symptoms, and modes of applicable treatment.
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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 for as long as 3 months. In this phase, there is an excessive release of thyroid hormones due to which the symptoms could include anxiety, hair loss, sudden weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and intolerance to heat.
Stage 2: Hypothyroidism – is characterized by a deficit in the production of thyroid hormones and usually starts within 4 to 8 months after delivery. Symptoms include tiredness, putting on weight, depression, dry skin, constipation, aching muscles, diminished lactation, intolerance to cold. This may last for a year and seriously impact daily life and health in general.
Stage 3: Recovery – In most sets of cases, it is usually known that the thyroid gland returns to normal within a period of 12 to 18 months. Most women return to normal functioning, though in rare cases, it may require hormonal replacement.
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Postpartum Thyroid Prevention
According to Dr. Nithiyaa Babukumar M.B.B.S, D.G.O, DNB OG, MNAMS, Consultant Obstetrics & Gynecology, Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospital, Chennai, extent of the disorder is confirmed by the levels of thyroid hormones in blood tests. Follow-up check ups are important in monitoring the thyroid to know whether the thyroid gland has gone back to normal. Around 80% of women may develop a normalization in thyroid function within 12-18 months and may no longer require treatment, while the remaining 20% may need long-term management and hormone replacement.
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- Early Awareness and Recognition: The symptoms and phases of postpartum thyroiditis, if recognized well in advance, will definitely help the physician to make an early diagnosis. These symptoms may include anxiety, weight loss/gain, and tiredness, well known to one and all, which may make you seek timely medical advice.
- Regular Prenatal and Postnatal Check-ups: Continue your routine prenatal and postnatal check-ups with your health provider. This kind of routine follow-up may be helpful in the early detection and timely management of the thyroid disorder before its deterioration.
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: In the case of previous medical history concerning thyroid problems, it is always best to consult a health professional when symptoms start showing up for postpartum thyroiditis. This is so important because early consultation might lead to early management, thus preventing further worsening of the condition.
Understanding and management of postpartum thyroiditis are crucial in the health of a new mother for the postpartum period and beyond.
