Publication:

Pregnancy outcome in women treated for subclinical hypothyroidism detected in early gestation

Background Thyroid disorders are among the most common endocrine disorders in pregnancy. Objective of present study were to investigate the outcome of pregnancy in those women detected to have subclinical hypothyroidism in early gestation and to evaluate whether treatment of subclinical hypothyroidism reduces the adverse pregnancy outcome.

Methods Pregnant women detected to have Subclinical hypothyroidism (TSH >2.5- 6 mU/L and N Free T4) in the 1st trimester were selected and randomly divided into 2 groups. One group received treatment with Thyroxine. They were followed up till delivery and outcome noted.

Results The mean maternal age of both the group was 26 yrs. The gestational age at delivery and the newborn birth weight did not show any statistically significant difference. Antenatal complications like Gestational Diabetes, hypertension, small for gestation, and preterm were almost the same in both groups. There was significant increase in the primary caesarean rate in the treated group. No significant difference in the number of term vaginal delivery in both groups.

Conclusions Treatment of women with SCH (TSH <6 mU/L) does not reduce the risk of adverse pregnancy outcome. Benefits of treatment need to be weighed against any potential risks.