Postpartum Thyroiditis

• What is Postpartum Thyroiditis

• Symptoms and what treatment may look like

• Assessment and pathology testing

It's common for Thyroiditis to present postpartum and can definitely be a driver for some of the symptoms we experience during this time. Thyroiditis is inflammation of the thyroid gland which alters the production of thyroid hormones.

Symptoms of Postpartum Thyroiditis

• Racing heartbeat

• Sensitivity to cold weather

• Fatigue or weakness

• Muscle cramps

• Abnormal bowel motions ~ urgent, loose stools or constipation

• Dramatic, unexplained weight loss or weight gain

• Difficulties with focus or concentration

• Memory loss

Our thyroid hormones are responsible for a range of functions in the body, which is why identifying and treating this is important to treating appropriately.

Treatment may look like

• Focusing on slowing down, reducing stressors where possible

• Prioritising rest and calming activities like getting into nature or walking

• Optimising the diet with specific nutrients integral for thyroid function, like iodine, iron, zinc and more.

• Specific supplementation safe for postpartum

Testing & Analysis

A comprehensive analysis of the thyroid is essential to determine whether this is an underlying factor ~ a blood test for a full thyroid panel including

• TSH, T3 and T4

• Anti-thyroid antibodies ~ TPoAb and TGAb

Assessing TSH alone does not give a full picture of our thyroid ~ TSH is a hormone produced by our pituitary gland that acts upon our thyroid to stimulate it to produce our thyroid hormones T4 and subsequently, T3.

Thyroid antibodies tell us that the body is 'attacking' the thyroid gland ~ if this goes undiagnosed, it is highly likely for the individual to go on to develop thyroid disease within the next 5 years.

It is common to see a normal TSH level, but also to find abnormal T4 or T3 OR see thyroid antibodies present. This is why a full analysis in addition to assessment by a qualified practitioner is so important.

Does this sound like you? Get in touch or book in to organise your thyroid assessment today