Pregnancy can trigger such a wide range of symptoms that it would be hard to surprise an expectant mother. Swollen feet? Sure! Anemia? Of course! Aversions to every food you ever held dear? Exactly what the doctor ordered! But could you guess that pregnancy can trigger an autoimmune disease?
Hashimoto’s, Your Thyroid, and Pregnancy
Hashimoto’s is an autoimmune disease that attacks the thyroid gland. For many women, the onset of hypothyroid symptoms began during or after pregnancy. About 90% of hypothyroid cases are caused by Hashimoto’s. During pregnancy, the body is already dealing with many hormonal shifts, which can cause inflammation and autoimmunity. According to Mayo Clinic, Hashimoto’s Disease can cause a wide variety of symptoms, including:
- Fatigue
- Joint pain and muscle weakness
- Sensitivity to cold
- Brittle skin
- Depression
Although there is already a lot to keep track of during pregnancy, you may want to be aware of several stressors that can contribute to hormone and thyroid issues.
Precursors to Autoimmune Disorders in Pregnancy
- Gut infections such as leaky gut
- Blood sugar imbalances
- Undiagnosed food intolerances (example: gluten sensitivity)
- Hormonal imbalances
- Undiagnosed brain dysfunctions, such as an old brain injury, brain inflammation caused by poor diet, PTSD, or CPTSD
- Chemical sensitivity
- Poor liver detoxification
- Undiagnosed infections (example: chronic bacterial, parasitic, fungal, or viral)
Many of these conditions can be determined through simple bloodwork. If you are pregnant, you may be tired of getting your blood drawn, but catching these issues early on will make your prenatal and postpartum life much easier.
Ask our office for advice on how to manage your autoimmune disease, find the root cause of your health concern, or learn what supplements can support a healthy pregnancy.
References:
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2020, February 11). Hashimoto’s disease. Retrieved October 22, 2020, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hashimotos-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20351855
