A cross-sectional study to assess hypothyroid status of pregnant women at 12–16 weeks of gestation

Background: Physiological changes occur during pregnancy. These changes include metabolic, hematologic, cardiovascular, renal, and respiratory changes. In some cases, these changes may alter and lead to complications which result in adverse pregnancy outcomes. In India, hypothyroidism in pregnancy has a prevalence of 4.8–11%. 

Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of hypothyroidism in pregnant women at 12–16 weeks of gestation.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was planned on pregnant women attending the ANC clinic of Outpatient Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at K.L. E’S Dr Prabhakar Kore Hospital and Medical Research Center Belagavi. Serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) was estimated in the study participants. Serum TSH levels >4.5 μIU/ml were labeled as hypothyroid pregnant women. 

Results: In our study, the prevalence of hypothyroidism was observed to be 8.68%. 

Conclusion: Hence, we conclude that all pregnant women should be screened for hypothyroidism at earlier weeks of gestation.