St. Luke’s Maternal Fetal Medicine

Thyroid Disease

Thyroid disease is a common glandular disease found in women of childbearing age. Thyroid disease includes either hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) or hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). Generally speaking, the fetus’s thyroid is relatively independent of the mother, especially after the 16th week of pregnancy. The same therapies used for non-pregnant women are used during pregnancy, with thyroid function tests performed at least every three months during the pregnancy as adjustments in the medication are frequently necessary secondary to the demands of pregnancy. Certain conditions that can affect the baby occur with thyroid disease; however, these are very rare. Questions regarding these conditions can be answered by your obstetrical care provider.

St. Luke’s Maternal Fetal Medicine
333 N. 1st Street, Suite 150
Boise, ID 83702
(208) 381-3088