levels in the high-normal range on the lowest dose of
antithyroid medication. Targeting this range of free
hormone levels will minimize the risk to the baby of
developing hypothyroidism or goiter. Maternal hypothyroidism
should be avoided. Therapy should be
closely monitored during pregnancy. This is typically
done by following thyroid function tests (TSH and
thyroid hormone levels) monthly.
In patients who cannot be adequately treated with
anti-thyroid medications (i.e. those who develop
an allergic reaction to the drugs), surgery is an acceptable
alternative. Surgical removal of the thyroid
gland is only very rarely recommended in the pregnant
woman due to the risks of both surgery and
anesthesia to the mother and the baby.