How much does hypothyroidism in pregnant women affect the intelligence of the fetus?
Disease description:
I am six months pregnant and recently discovered during a physical examination that I have hypothyroidism. May I ask, to what extent does maternal hypothyroidism affect the intelligence of the fetus?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu
Pregnant women with hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) may experience certain effects on the intellectual development of the fetus. Thyroid hormones are crucial for fetal brain development, especially during early pregnancy. If a pregnant woman's thyroid hormone levels are low, it may lead to delayed development of the fetal brain and nervous system.
Untreated severe hypothyroidism can increase the risk of intellectual impairment in the fetus, particularly when the mother's thyroid hormone levels are very low during the first few months of pregnancy. However, if hypothyroidism is diagnosed and treated promptly with thyroid hormone replacement therapy, this risk can usually be minimized. Doctors typically monitor thyroid function closely and adjust medication dosages to ensure the mother's thyroid hormone levels remain within the normal range, thereby protecting the intellectual development of the fetus.
Therefore, it is important for pregnant women to undergo regular prenatal checkups and thyroid function monitoring. If there are any concerns, please consult a relevant healthcare provider.
