Pregnancy and Thyroid Clinic
Thyroid function matters at every stage of pregnancy — for the mother’s health and for the baby’s development. This service provides focused thyroid care for people who are planning a pregnancy, are pregnant, or have recently given birth.
Thyroid needs change during pregnancy, so monitoring and treatment are adjusted as the pregnancy progresses.
Last medically reviewed: 15 November 2025
Before pregnancy
Preconception review ensures thyroid function is stable and the levothyroxine dose is appropriate, since requirements typically rise early in pregnancy. For people with Graves’ disease, treatment is planned carefully because some options are not suitable in pregnancy.
Planning ahead allows treatment to be optimised before conception.
During pregnancy
Thyroid function is monitored at intervals through pregnancy because hormone requirements change. Levothyroxine is safe in pregnancy and the dose is often increased early on. Antithyroid drugs are used at the lowest effective dose when needed.
The aim is to keep thyroid function in the range recommended for pregnancy at each stage.
After birth
Thyroid function is rechecked after delivery because doses usually need reducing back, and because postpartum thyroiditis — a temporary inflammation of the thyroid — is common in the months after birth.
Breastfeeding is compatible with thyroid treatment, and we advise on monitoring and any symptoms to watch for.
Frequently asked questions
Is levothyroxine safe in pregnancy?
Yes — levothyroxine is safe and necessary in pregnancy when the thyroid is underactive. The dose often needs to increase early in pregnancy.
Will my dose change during pregnancy?
Very likely — thyroid hormone requirements typically rise in early pregnancy, so the dose is adjusted with monitoring through each trimester.
What is postpartum thyroiditis?
A temporary inflammation of the thyroid that can occur in the months after giving birth, causing hormone levels to swing before usually settling. It needs monitoring.
References & further reading
This page is based on established medical knowledge and guidelines from authoritative sources. Always consult a qualified clinician for personal medical advice.
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