Thyroid is a common problem that affects more women than men worldwide. The good thing about all of this is that even after having an underactive thyroid, women can still get pregnant. But somewhere this disease creates a problem when a woman is breastfeeding a child. Thyroid disease can adversely affect breastfeeding. The main function of the thyroid gland is the production of hormones that contribute to the growth and vital activity of the body. Not only this, this hormone is also necessary for lactation. So a mother with a thyroid does not breastfeed her child? Let’s know everything about it.
First, learn about the thyroid
There are basically two types of thyroid. Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, constipation, dry skin, facial swelling, heavy periods, and high blood cholesterol. On the other hand, symptoms of hyperthyroidism include anxiety, sweating, sleep problems, and fatigue. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned here while breastfeeding, you should have your thyroid levels checked immediately.
Is it necessary to breastfeed the baby during thyroid?
Many hypothyroid women worry that if they breastfeed their baby, it may affect their baby too. According to Dr. Ritu Sethi, Senior Director, Ora Clinic, Gurugram, if thyroid disease is well controlled with medication, there is less difficulty in breastfeeding.
But if hypothyroidism is not taken care of, it can affect the supply of breast milk. Therefore, remember that it is important to take thyroid medication while breastfeeding.
Basically, a woman’s body undergoes major hormonal changes during childbirth and pregnancy. This also causes changes in thyroid function. Breastfeeding is best for baby’s development, but in some cases, breastfeeding causes the thyroid gland to produce more thyroid hormones than it should. This can lead to thyroiditis after birth.
Breastfeeding can also protect the thyroid
Breastfeeding can help prevent thyroid problems in both mother and baby. Regular breastfeeding can help control autoimmune thyroid disease.
There are many cases of hyperthyroidism, but some doctors believe that a woman should continue to breastfeed while taking thyroid medication. Monitor your baby’s thyroid levels while breastfeeding. When the mother consumes small amounts of thyroid, it does not have much effect on the baby. But if the treatment involves radioactive iodine or surgery, it is better not to feed the baby.
Conclusion
Thyroid disorders, although not common, can cause problems for you either way, whether it’s before or after pregnancy. Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism have their side effects. But there are many women who can safely breastfeed while on medication.
Both conditions can be treated with medication. Therefore, you should go for a thyroid examination at the same time after the birth of the child and take the medicine on time.
