Hypothyroidism and pregnancy

Abstract

Hypothyroidism is defined by Thyroid UK (2015) as occurring 'when the thyroid produces less thyroid hormone than it should which causes the metabolism to run too slow'. The signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism are commonly tiredness, depression and weight gain but may also include sensitivity to cold, muscle aches or cramps, dry skin, brittle hair and nails, irregular or heavy periods and loss of libido (NHS Choices, 2015). In most cases, underactivity of the thyroid is caused by damage to the thyroid gland from the immune system or as a result of treatment for thyroid cancer or hyperthyroidism (NHS Choices, 2015). According to Thyroid UK (2015), hypothyroidism occurs ten times more often in women than men and can effect approximately 20-50% of the population.