Increased TSH During Pregnancy: Causes and Remedies

Increased TSH during pregnancy is a fairly common finding and is usually not a cause for alarm. It often results from normal hormonal changes, your body adapting to support your baby, or increased stress on the thyroid.

While it’s generally harmless, see your doctor if you notice severe, ongoing, or worsening symptoms.

Is it normal to have Increased TSH while pregnant?

It’s common for TSH levels to rise a bit during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester as your body adjusts. Mild changes are usually nothing to worry about, but if your levels are high or you notice unusual symptoms, it’s best to check in with your doctor.

Increased TSH during different trimesters in pregnancy

What causes Increased TSH during pregnancy?

There are several reasons why you might experience Increased TSH while pregnant. Some are directly related to pregnancy, while others can happen anytime – pregnant or not.

Common pregnancy-related causes:

• Subclinical hypothyroidism – Mild thyroid underactivity in pregnancy
• Pre-existing hypothyroidism – Known thyroid disease worsened
• Iodine deficiency – Increased maternal thyroid hormone demand
• Thyroid autoimmunity – Hashimoto’s or thyroid antibodies present

Other possible causes:

• Medications – Lithium or amiodarone use
• Pituitary adenoma – TSH-secreting tumor
• Laboratory error – Sample mishandling or assay issues
• Severe illness – Non-thyroidal illness syndrome

Remedies for Increased TSH during pregnancy

There are some things you can do to feel better faster and stay safe:

Natural remedies at home

• Eat iodine-rich foods – Seaweed, dairy, eggs support thyroid health
• Increase selenium intake – Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds aid thyroid
• Manage stress – Practice meditation or gentle prenatal yoga
• Get adequate sleep – Support hormone balance with restful nights
• Avoid goitrogenic foods – Limit raw cabbage, soy, and broccoli

Medication (talk to your doctor first)

• Levothyroxine as prescribed – Standard medication for hypothyroidism in pregnancy
• Avoid self-medicating supplements – Some can worsen thyroid function
• Consult your OB/GYN – Adjust medication and monitor TSH regularly

Important: Always talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy.

Take care of you (and baby, too)

Pregnancy can come with some unexpected symptoms – but you don’t have to manage them alone.

From soothing teas to tummy-friendly snacks, Bump Boxes delivers safe, mom-approved products tailored to your trimester. Each monthly box is curated to help you feel better, stay nourished, and enjoy the journey.

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FAQs

1. When should you be concerned about increased TSH?

You should be concerned about increased TSH during pregnancy if your levels are above the recommended range for your trimester, especially if you experience symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, or cold intolerance. Consult your doctor promptly to ensure proper thyroid function and protect your health and your baby’s development.

2. Is increased TSH harmful to the baby?

Increased TSH during pregnancy can be harmful if left untreated, as it may indicate hypothyroidism. Untreated hypothyroidism can affect your baby’s brain development and increase the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, and low birth weight. Timely treatment helps ensure a healthy pregnancy and optimal baby development.

3. What can I take for increased TSH during pregnancy?

For increased TSH during pregnancy, doctors usually prescribe levothyroxine, a synthetic thyroid hormone that helps regulate thyroid levels. Do not take any supplements or medications without consulting your healthcare provider, as proper dosing and monitoring are essential for the health of both you and your baby.

4. When is increased TSH worse in pregnancy?

Increased TSH is often more pronounced during the first trimester because pregnancy hormones affect thyroid function. Early pregnancy is a critical time for thyroid hormone levels, so regular monitoring and early intervention are important to prevent complications for both mother and baby throughout the pregnancy.

5. How long will I have increased TSH during pregnancy?

Increased TSH may persist throughout pregnancy if left untreated, but with proper medication, levels usually normalize within a few weeks. Most women continue treatment and regular monitoring until delivery, and sometimes beyond, depending on postpartum thyroid function and your doctor’s recommendations.

6. What foods help with increased TSH during pregnancy?

Foods rich in iodine, selenium, and zinc, such as fish, dairy, eggs, nuts, and whole grains, can support healthy thyroid function during pregnancy. However, diet alone is usually not enough to correct increased TSH, so always follow your doctor’s treatment and dietary recommendations for best results.

Medical Disclaimer: This website contains general information about conception, pregnancy, pregnancy products and parenting. The information is not complete or comprehensive. You should not rely on the information on this website as an alternative to medical advice from your doctor or healthcare provider. Nothing contained on this web site should be construed nor is intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider. Should you have any healthcare related questions, please call or see your physician or other qualified healthcare provider promptly. Read More- (Link to full disclaimer)