How to treat low maternal hypersensitive thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels during pregnancy?

Generally, low levels of maternal hypersensitive thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) may be caused by elevated human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels, abnormal iodine intake, subacute thyroiditis, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, toxic nodular goiter, and other factors. Treatments may include regular monitoring, dietary adjustments, medication, or surgical intervention.

1. Elevated human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels: During pregnancy, the placenta secretes large amounts of hCG, which structurally resembles thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and has mild thyroid-stimulating activity. This may stimulate the thyroid gland to secrete thyroid hormones, causing a physiological decrease in hypersensitive TSH levels during early pregnancy. Special treatment usually is not required, although close monitoring is necessary.

2. Abnormal iodine intake: Iodine is a key component for synthesizing thyroid hormones. Both insufficient and excessive iodine intake in pregnant women may affect thyroid function. Excessive iodine intake may inhibit the synthesis and release of thyroid hormones, leading to decreased thyroid hormone levels. Pregnant women should ensure adequate iodine intake and avoid excessive consumption.

3. Subacute thyroiditis: Often caused by viral infection, this condition initially involves destruction of thyroid follicles, resulting in massive release of thyroid hormones into the bloodstream. This may lead to thyrotoxic symptoms and a reduced hypersensitive TSH level. It may also be accompanied by thyroid region pain and fever. It is recommended to take medications such as hydrocortisone tablets or prednisone acetate tablets under a physician's guidance.

4. Hashimoto's thyroiditis: In the early stages of the disease, destruction of thyroid cells leads to increased release of thyroid hormones, causing a transient decrease in hypersensitive TSH levels. It is recommended to follow medical advice and take medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets or thyroid hormone tablets to regulate thyroid hormone levels.

5. Toxic nodular goiter: Autonomous overproduction of thyroid hormones by thyroid nodules leads to hyperthyroidism and reduced hypersensitive TSH levels. Depending on the severity of the condition, antithyroid drugs or surgical treatment may be selected. Surgical treatment usually involves subtotal thyroidectomy. Preoperative assessment of both maternal and fetal conditions should be thorough, and the procedure should be performed by an experienced surgeon.

When hypersensitive TSH levels are found to be low in pregnant women, timely medical consultation is necessary to select appropriate treatment based on individual conditions, ensuring the health of both mother and fetus. It is also recommended to undergo regular prenatal checkups to monitor maternal health and fetal development.