What is Postpartum Thyroiditis?

Postpartum thyroiditis is a common thyroid disorder that can occur in women within the first year after childbirth. It affects about 5-10% of new mothers and is characterized by inflammation of the thyroid gland, leading to temporary changes in thyroid hormone levels as well as accompanying symptoms. This condition often goes undiagnosed due to its overlap with common postpartum symptoms like fatigue and mood changes, which unfortunately get brushed off as “normal” and “just being a new mom”. Understanding postpartum thyroiditis is crucial for new moms to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms of Postpartum Thyroiditis

Postpartum thyroiditis typically occurs in two phases:

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. Hyperthyroid Phase (1-6 months postpartum):
               
               • Fatigue
               • Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
               • Weight loss despite increased appetite
               • Anxiety or irritability
               • Tremors or shakiness
            2. Hypothyroid Phase (6-12 months postpartum):
               
               • Tiredness and lethargy
               • Weight gain
               • Depression or mood swings
               • Dry skin and hair loss
               • Sensitivity to cold

These symptoms can mimic normal postpartum experiences, making it essential to get a full thyroid panel so that you can see exactly what is going on under the hood and make a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of postpartum thyroiditis isn’t fully understood, but it’s often linked to an autoimmune response and inflammation. Women with a history of autoimmune disorders, such as type 1 diabetes or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, are at higher risk. Other risk factors include:

• • • A family history of thyroid disease
    • Positive anti-thyroid antibodies (like TPO antibodies)
    • Previous episodes of postpartum thyroiditis

The immune system changes that occur during and after pregnancy may trigger the condition in susceptible women.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing postpartum thyroiditis involves blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels (TSH, Free T4 and Free T3) and check for anti-thyroid antibodies. It is possible that postpartum thyroiditis may resolve on its own but there are many things we can do from a functional medicine perspective to support thyroid health and ease symptoms. 

• Hyperthyroid Phase: Beta-blockers may be prescribed to manage symptoms like rapid heartbeat or anxiety.
• Hypothyroid Phase: Thyroid hormone replacement therapy (e.g., levothyroxine or natural desiccated thyroid) may be needed if symptoms are severe or persistent.

Regular monitoring is key, as some women may develop permanent hypothyroidism requiring lifelong treatment.

Managing Postpartum Thyroiditis with Functional Medicine

Functional medicine goes deeper, beyond just diagnosing and prescribing medication and focuses on addressing the root causes of postpartum thyroiditis to support long-term health. Strategies include:

• Nutritional Support: Emphasize anti-inflammatory foods rich in selenium, zinc, and iodine (e.g., Brazil nuts, leafy greens, and seafood) to support thyroid function. Some patients may benefit from avoiding gluten and processed foods if autoimmune triggers are suspected.
• Gut Health: Optimize gut health and gut lining health with probiotics and prebiotics, healthy fats and protein as gut dysbiosis and increased intestinal permeability can exacerbate autoimmune conditions.
• Stress Management: Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation, prayer, yoga, or breathwork, as stress can worsen thyroid dysfunction.
• Hormone Balance: Work with a functional medicine practitioner to assess adrenal and sex hormone levels, which can influence thyroid health.
• Supplements: Consider targeted supplements like vitamin D, omega-3s, b vitamins, magnesium, zinc and selenium (under professional guidance as always).
• Personalized Testing: Functional medicine practitioners may use advanced testing (e.g., comprehensive thyroid panels and micronutrient tests) to tailor treatment.

Come see us at Well North Functional Medicine while postpartum care AND thyroid management are two of our specialties! 

When to See a Doctor

If you experience symptoms like extreme fatigue, significant weight changes, constipation, heat or cold intolerances, or mood swings after childbirth, consult your healthcare provider and ask for a thyroid panel. Early diagnosis can prevent complications and improve your quality of life.

Postpartum thyroiditis is a manageable condition with proper diagnosis, medical care and awareness. By recognizing the symptoms and seeking timely treatment, new moms can focus on enjoying their journey into motherhood. 

Book a free discovery call below to learn more about how Well North Functional Medicine can be your partner in health!