Assessment of Thyroid Function in Pregnant Females Attending Suez Canal University Hospital

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy is a physiological state in which significant changes in thyroid function occur. Several factors contribute to these changes. These factors could contribute to thyroid dysfunction during pregnancy especially when a deficiency of iodine intake exists and when thyroid reserve is not sufficient. Aim: To study thyroid functions in pregnant women avoiding maternal and fetal complications associated with thyroid dysfunctions. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on 100 pregnant women attending Obstetrics Outpatient Clinic in Suez-Canal University Hospitals were invited to enroll in the study. At the end of study, the blood samples were assessed for free T3, free T4 and TSH. Results: This study revealed that most of the pregnant women had normal thyroid functions (51%), while subclinical hypothyroidism (39%) was the most prevalent disorder followed by clinical hypothyroidism (6%) and isolated hypothyroxinemia (4%). Conclusion:The most prevalent pattern of thyroid dysfunction in pregnant women was subclinical hypothyroidism.

Thyroid Dysfunction in Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinic

“…Against our findings was Abo El-Roose et al (12) who reported in their study on 100 pregnant women that most of the pregnant women had normal thyroid functions (51%) and 49% of the studied population had thyroid disorder. They also reported that subclinical hypothyroidism was the most prevalent disorder representing 39% of the total population followed by 6% had clinical hypothyroidism and 4% had isolated hypothyroxiemia.…”

“…In agreement with our findings regarding patients' ages was Dulek et al (10) who reported that there was no statistical significant difference between different groups regarding their ages, gravidity and parity. Also, Abo El-Roose et al (12) found that no statistical significant difference between different thyroid functions and age was revealed.…”

“…In the study done by Abo El-Roose et al (12) they reported that the study population age ranged from 18 to 39 years with average of 28.5 ± 5 years. Seventy two women were residents in urban areas.…”