Schwangerschaft und Struma
During this period, there is a greater iodine requirement due to the following changes:
greater elimination by the kidneys, iodine consumption by the fetus, and weight gain.
Iodine deficiency during pregnancy can lead to simple or nodular enlargement of the mother’s thyroid gland.
An existing struma (goiter) actually becomes larger during pregnancy in 30-40% of cases. Starting in the 10th to 12th week of pregnancy, the fetal thyroid gland is able to take up iodine and produce hormones on its own. An adequate iodine supply as the basis for intact thyroid function in both the pregnant woman and the fetus is absolutely necessary for the normal physical and mental development of the unborn child.
Therapy:
Medication - 200 µg iodine daily, low-dose Levothyroxine therapy.