Pregnant and TSH 19

[PregSJ]

I'm 6 weeks pregnant and learned late last week that my TSH is 19. I had been on 100 mcg levothyroxine and now am on 150 mcg. I see an endocrinologist on 2/26, but am hoping to get some perspective before then. Can anyone point me to information that shows statistics of likelihood of brain damage (or other birth defects) this could cause to my baby? As you can imagine, I'm very concerned and am hoping to find some info that will help settle my nerves. Also, how and when will I know if there's been brain damage?
Thanks in advance for your replies!

[laura1967]

Welcome....how far along are you? I think the only one that can answer specifically and medically would be an endo that specializes in pregnant women and children. You might be stressing yourself out to the max by thinking the worst. As long as your level is corrected it may not have any affect at all on the baby. I would think going through a pregnancy not treated at all is where you would find all the development problems. I also think it is more development problems that are found than brain damage per say. Please don't let this unnerve you and get you sick over this.....how long ago had you had your last thyroid labs done before this most recent one?
You might even consider posting to Dr Lupo on the thyroid expert community, and even the peds endo. This might put your mind at ease. You will need to state how long in between testing like I asked. Chin up and think positive and happy thoughts....the baby can feel your joy! :)

[PregSJ]

Laura - Thanks for your reassurance. I'm six weeks in my pregnancy. My TSH was last tested in November (2.08 uIU) when we were trying to conceive. When I was pregnant with my son, now almost two, my TSH went up to 12.6 at about six weeks into the pregnancy and my medication was adjusted several times throughout that pregnancy. I think he's a smart little boy, so am trying to take comfort in that, but then 19 is A LOT higher than 12.6.  I tried to post to Dr. Lupo, but there are limits on the number of posts accepted per day. I'm hoping to stay up for another hour to be the first on the Dr. Lupo post at midnight. My OB said that he's not concerned so long as we get the medication adjusted, however, I became worried since my internist seemed really concerned, and the endocrinologist called and adjusted the medication even higher once she reviewed my file. Thanks again for your encouragement!

[Super_sally888]

hi,

6 weeks is still ok timing to be adjusting.  I would think that the Key is to adjust your meds now and get levels better.  Human body is remarkable in how it can handle things.  You are on 150 mcg this is not a small amount so you know you have thyroid hormone available for your baby, not like you have none.  Yes you need more, but you are having levles adjusted and likely you and baby will be just fine.

[SarahB79]

I am sure with how early on, you and your baby will be just fine once the new dosage takes effect.  Just have them check it often!  

My husband and I are trying to concieve and my endo told me if I get pregnant before I talk to her or see her,  to double my dosage.  (currently at 75 mcg).  

[PregSJ]

Thanks for your replies!