PPT Treatment

Postpartum thyroiditis, or PPT, is a condition that occurs after childbirth. A woman's thyroid gland becomes inflamed, resulting in either an underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). Statistics show postpartum thyroiditis is fairly common, affecting as many as 5% to 10% of U.S. women in the weeks or months after they give birth. Typically, postpartum thyroiditis appears within one to eight months after delivery.American Thyroid Association: Postpartum Thyroiditis National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Service: Pregnancy and Thyroid Disease

Treatment for postpartum thyroiditis will vary depending on whether a new mother is in the hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism phase of the condition. Treatment for hyperthyroidism may include beta blockers; treatment for hypothyroidism may require thyroid replacement hormones.MayoClinic.com: What are the signs and symptoms of postpartum thyroiditis?

• Some women will not notice the initial stages of postpartum thyroiditis, or PPT. Initial symptoms of hyperthyroidism may include:

1. Rapid heartbeat
2. Sudden weight loss
3. Fatigue
4. Nervousness
5. Sensitivity to heat

• As postpartum thyroiditis progresses to the hypothyroidism phase, symptoms may become more apparent. They may include:

1. Unexplained or sudden weight gain
2. Fatigue
3. Constipation
4. Hoarseness
5. Sensitivity to cold
6. Puffy faceMayoClinic.com: What are the signs and symptoms of postpartum thyroiditis? American Thyroid Association: Postpartum Thyroiditis

1. May affect up to 10% of postpartum women in the United StatesAmerican Thyroid Association: Postpartum Thyroiditis

The content on this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact a physician for information on PPT treatment.

| Hypothyroidism | Hyperthyroidism | Thyroid Disease | Pregnancy | Postpartum Depression | Postpartum Thyroiditis | Thyroiditis