Comparative Analysis of Thyroid Function Tests in Pregnant Females Across Different Gestational Stages and Non-Pregnant Females

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Medical Laboratories Techniques, College of Health and Medical Technologies, University of Al Maarif, Al-Anbar 31001, Iraq

2 Department of Pathological Analysis, College of Applied Science, University of Fallujah, Iraq

3 University of Al Maarif, Anbar, Iraq

4 High Institute of Infertility Diagnoses and ART, Al-Nahrain University, Iraq

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism are thyroid conditions that are essential to manage and are somewhat frequent during pregnancy. Proper management of these conditions is critical, particularly in the first trimester, as they can significantly impact maternal and fetal health. The objectives of this study are to determine the ideal levels of T3, T4, and TSH in each trimester of pregnancy, to investigate whether these values change as pregnancy progresses, and to compare the thyroid profile findings of non-pregnant individuals with those of pregnant women. Materials and Methods: This study included samples from 31 pregnant women, divided into groups according to the trimesters, and 19 age-matched control females with gynecological problems but normal thyroid function. The participants were recruited from Al Anbar, Iraq, at Al-Ramadi hospital in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and from private laboratories. Serum blood samples were collected and analyzed for T3 (Triiodothyronine), T4 (Thyroxine), TSH (Thyrotropin-Stimulating Hormone), and Hemoglobin (Hb). Results: The analysis revealed significant variations in the levels of T3, T4, and TSH across different trimesters of pregnancy. Pregnant women exhibited altered thyroid profiles compared to non-pregnant controls, indicating the dynamic nature of thyroid function during pregnancy. Conclusion: The study concludes that thyroid function, as indicated by T3, T4, and TSH levels, undergoes significant changes during pregnancy. Regular monitoring of thyroid hormones is recommended to ensure optimal maternal and fetal health.

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