Post partum thyroid dysfunction

Post partum thyroid dysfunction and low milk supply

A large amount of thyroid hormone is needed for starting breastfeeding and this is how this breastfeeding problem starts. There is a bigger need for the thyroid hormone and iodine during pregnancy, which puts a strain on the thyroid.

Postpartum thyroid dysfunction is common especially in women with Hashimoto's thyroid inflammation.

Poor milk production in women with thyroid dysfunction is caused through low blood levels of thyroid hormone. (underactive thyroid)

If thyroid hormone is given to a mother with breastfeeding problems the problems should disappear quickly within a week.

The good news is that, if you have thyroid problems, you can safely breastfeed, whether your thyroid problem developed before, during or after pregnancy

- Swelling of the thyroid

- Dry skin

- Fatigue

- Depression

- Intolerance to cold

- Poor milk supply

- Hair loss

- Difficulty losing weight

- Rapid weight loss

- Difficulty concentrating

It is important to be evaluated by your Health Care Provider. If it is proven by blood tests that you have gone into a hypothyroid state, there is thyroid medicine that can be used during lactation.

Should I carry on taking my thyroid hormone drugs (i.e., Synthroid, Levoxyl, Armour, Thyrolar) while I'm breastfeeding?

Yes. Thyroid hormone replacement, crosses into breast milk in small quantities, and has no bad effect on baby.

Can I get a thyroid scan when I'm breastfeeding?

A thyroid scan is not advised while breastfeeding. A thyroid scan involves an injection of radioactive iodine. The radioactive iodine will pass into the milk for weeks, and can have an effect on baby's thyroid.

Other useful pages on "breastfeeding problems" in connection with this page 

-  Breastfeeding diet guidelines

-  Frustration and depression.(PPD)

-  Inspirational breastfeeding stories

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