Hyperthyroidism in pregnancy.

Graves' disease may complicate the course of pregnancy; pregnancy on the other hand may alter the natural course of the disease. It is imperative for women of childbearing age affected by the disease to be informed about the potential maternal and fetal problems if the condition is not properly managed. Preconception control in women with diabetes has resulted in a dramatic decrease in the number of perinatal complications. The same approach should be encouraged for women with thyroid diseases. Ideally, the women suffering from hyperthyroidism or any other thyroid disease should be metabolically compensated at time of conception-the need for contraception until the disease is controlled should be openly discussed. A multidisciplinary approach by a health care team is of paramount importance during pregnancy, with the involvement of the obstetrician, perinatologist, endocrinologist, neonatologist, pediatrician and anesthesiologist. In many situations the assistance of social workers, nutritionists, and other health care professionals may be needed. The future mother and her family should be aware of the potential complications for both mother and her offspring if proper management guidelines are not carefully followed.