Thyroid hormones affect the way nearly every organ in the body works, and in turn influence the health of both mother and developing baby during pregnancy. During the first trimester, the baby depends on the mother’s supply of thyroid hormones through the placenta, so maintaining thyroid health is essential for both.
For women planning to embark on a cycle of IVF, the thyroid function must be working as well as possible. Thyroid hormones affect the production of reproductive hormones, and these are essential for successful ovulation and implantation – as well as foetal development.
Maintaining thyroid health before and during pregnancy forms an important part of our work at London Swiss Medical. We work with you to get you as well as possible for conception – whether natural or assisted – and plan ahead so your thyroid health is controlled during pregnancy, breastfeeding and motherhood. If you become pregnant and have thyroid disease, please call us as soon as possible so we can check you are in good health. Doses of thyroxine should often be reconsidered if you are planning a pregnancy, so it is vital to consult with your thyroid specialist.