Numerous studies show that millions of women around the world have problems related to reproductive function, which is expressed in the development of infertility for any reason. One of these probable causes of non-pregnancy is an increased level of TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone). Accordingly, most women wonder whether it is possible to become pregnant with an elevated TSH, and how to adjust this indicator to a normal state.
Causes of increased TSH
The TSH value may be increased in hypothyroidism, mainly primary. In such a situation, thyroid hormones are secreted in insufficient quantities by the thyroid gland into the blood, and the work of the reproductive function is especially affected. This is expressed, first of all, in a violation of the process of maturation of eggs, and if pregnancy has already begun, then with a high degree of probability spontaneous abortion may occur, and congenital malformations of the fetus may also occur.
Thyroid hormones can also be in excess, which causes hyperfunction or hyperthyroidism. As a rule, with hyperthyroidism, concomitant pathologies of the thyroid gland are detected. A dangerous combination of hyperthyroidism and pregnancy can lead to premature birth, preeclampsia, fetal malformations and low birth weight. Therefore, even at the planning stage, timely diagnosis of the disease is required.
Often, with chronic autoimmune thyroiditis or endemic goiter, manifestations of hypothyroidism are recorded. Autoimmune thyroiditis is characterized by a condition where the thyroid gland is attacked by its own immune cells.
It also happens that a woman who is planning a pregnancy is a carrier of antibodies, but TSH exists within the normal range. In such a situation, the diagnosis of hypothyroidism is not made, but thyroxin preparations should be prescribed by a doctor, since the disease can manifest itself during pregnancy or postpartum thyroiditis is likely to occur, and a miscarriage is also provoked.
Normal TSH readings
Qualified specialists strongly advise absolutely all women to constantly monitor their own hormonal levels, including the level of TSH. This is especially important in the presence of infertility and miscarriage, because during pregnancy, the thyroid gland experiences increased stress. With a high TSH, future conception should be taken very seriously and made rather strict requirements for preparation. The normal TSH value should not be lower than 2.5 mU / L.
If this concentration is exceeded, additional examination will be required. In order to identify the causes of the disorders caused, an ultrasound examination of the area where the thyroid gland is located is usually prescribed. In addition, a blood test is done for the level of prolactin, antibodies for thyrotoxicosis and thyroid hormones.
Correction of high TSH values before pregnancy
Experts say that pregnancy in combination with high TSH is unlikely, but it is also undesirable. Such hypothyroidism can affect multiple congenital pathologies in the unborn child, especially with regard to the central nervous system.
It is important to take into account that if a woman is found to have high TSH, she should be protected until the hormonal background returns to normal. The optimal doses of drugs are selected from two to four months.
Drug therapy is prescribed by an endocrinologist, who prescribes levothyroxine sodium to combat hypothyroidism. Doses are calculated on an individual basis, while in the course of therapy, according to the results of TSH, they are adjusted.
Hypothyroidism and In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
Sometimes it is very difficult to understand which factor influencing infertility is the main one, therefore, isolated treatment of various problems associated with it is recommended for the thyroid gland. Without such an adjustment, it will be simply impossible to enter the IVF program.
To find out the likely influence of the thyroid gland before the IVF procedure, the endocrinologist may prescribe an ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland. If a nodule is found that has a diameter of more than one centimeter, it will be necessary to check for the presence of a tumor of a malignant nature, for which a biopsy will be necessary. In addition to ultrasound, a scintigraphy may be needed, when the thyroid gland is checked using radioisotopes, as well as taking tests for the study of hormones.
A contraindication to the IVF program is also thyrotoxicosis, which reflects an excessive amount of thyroid hormones and a small proportion of the TSH content. The consequences can be very deplorable, therefore a comprehensive examination will not do without the thyroid gland, which in the subsequent, upon the onset of pregnancy, can directly affect the growth and development of the baby in the womb.
Thus, pregnancy with an elevated TSH really poses a risk to both the health of the mother and the unborn child, therefore, strict adherence to medical recommendations and regimen will help to overcome all difficulties on the way to the desired conception.