TSH Levels Chart for Pregnancy Trimesters
Know about the TSH levels in pregnancy, monitoring, symptoms & signs and maintenance of healthy TSH levels.
Written by Dr. M L Ezhilarasan
Reviewed by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula MBBS
Last updated on 8th Aug, 2025
Introduction
Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it also comes with many changes in your body. One important aspect to monitor during this time is your thyroid function, especially your Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) levels. The thyroid plays a crucial role in your baby’s brain development and overall growth.
In this article, we’ll explain what TSH levels mean, how they change during each trimester, and what you can do to keep them in a healthy range.
What Is TSH and Why Is It Important in Pregnancy?
TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that tells your thyroid how much thyroid hormone (T3 and T4) to release. These hormones help regulate your metabolism, energy levels, and—most importantly during pregnancy—your baby’s brain and nervous system development.
Why Should Pregnant Women Monitor TSH?
- Too High TSH (Hypothyroidism): Can lead to fatigue, weight gain, and complications like preterm birth or developmental issues in the baby.
- Too Low TSH (Hyperthyroidism): May cause anxiety, rapid heartbeat, and increase the risk of miscarriage or low birth weight.
Since pregnancy hormones naturally affect thyroid function, doctors recommend checking TSH levels early in pregnancy and monitoring them throughout.
Consult endocrinologist for TSH Test Queries
TSH Levels Chart for Pregnancy Trimesters
TSH levels change during pregnancy due to hormonal shifts. Here’s a general guideline for normal TSH levels in each trimester:
Note: These ranges may vary slightly depending on the lab and individual factors. Always consult your doctor for personalised advice.
What If My TSH Levels Are Outside the Normal Range?
- High TSH (Hypothyroidism): May require levothyroxine (thyroid hormone replacement) to bring levels down.
- Low TSH (Hyperthyroidism): May need medication or further testing to check for conditions like Graves’ disease.
Your doctor will adjust treatment based on your specific needs.
Symptoms of Thyroid Problems in Pregnancy
- Signs of High TSH (Hypothyroidism)
- Extreme tiredness
- Unexplained weight gain
- Dry skin and hair
- Feeling cold all the time
- Constipation
- Depression
Signs of Low TSH (Hyperthyroidism)
- Rapid heartbeat
- Anxiety or nervousness
- Unexplained weight loss
- Excessive sweating
- Trouble sleeping
- Hand tremors
If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your doctor for a thyroid test.
How to Maintain Healthy TSH Levels During Pregnancy?
1. Get Tested Early
- If you have a history of thyroid issues, get tested before conception or as soon as you find out you’re pregnant.
- Routine TSH tests are recommended in the first trimester.
2. Take Prescribed Medications
- If you’re on thyroid medication (like levothyroxine), continue taking it as directed. Your dose may need adjustment during pregnancy.
3. Eat a Thyroid-Friendly Diet
- Iodine-rich foods (seaweed, dairy, eggs, iodised salt) support thyroid function.
- Selenium (Brazil nuts, fish, eggs) helps convert T4 to active T3.
- Iron and Zinc (lean meats, beans, nuts) are essential for thyroid health.
- Avoid excessive soy and raw cruciferous vegetables (like cabbage and broccoli) as they can interfere with thyroid function in large amounts.
4. Stay Active
- Gentle exercises like walking, prenatal yoga, or swimming can help regulate metabolism and energy levels.
5. Manage Stress
- High stress can affect thyroid function. Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or light stretching.
When to See a Doctor?
When you experience these signs and symptoms, it's time to see the doctor:
- Unexplained fatigue or mood swings
- Sudden weight changes
- Heart palpitations
- Swelling in the neck (goitre)
Consult your doctor immediately. A simple blood test can check your TSH levels and ensure you and your baby stay healthy.
Final Thoughts
Monitoring TSH levels during pregnancy is essential for your baby’s growth and your well-being. If you have concerns about your thyroid health, don’t hesitate to get tested.
Consult endocrinologist for TSH Test Queries
Consult endocrinologist for TSH Test Queries
Dr. Nithin Reddy Modhugu
Endocrinologist
6 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DNB (Endocrinology)
Hyderabad
Dr. Nithin's Endocrine Clinic, Hyderabad
(100+ Patients)
Dr. Anand Ravi
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Gayatri S
Endocrinologist
4 Years • Suggested Qualifictaion- MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine), DM (ENDOCRINOLOGY)
Nellore
Narayana hospital, Nellore
Dr. Shrikrishna V Acharya
Endocrinologist
25 Years • MBBS, MD, DM(Endocrinology), MRCP (Endocrinology)
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
40 Years • MD(Internal Medicine)
Manikonda Jagir
Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir
(125+ Patients)
Consult endocrinologist for TSH Test Queries
Dr. Nithin Reddy Modhugu
Endocrinologist
6 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DNB (Endocrinology)
Hyderabad
Dr. Nithin's Endocrine Clinic, Hyderabad
(100+ Patients)
Dr. Anand Ravi
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Gayatri S
Endocrinologist
4 Years • Suggested Qualifictaion- MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine), DM (ENDOCRINOLOGY)
Nellore
Narayana hospital, Nellore
Dr. Shrikrishna V Acharya
Endocrinologist
25 Years • MBBS, MD, DM(Endocrinology), MRCP (Endocrinology)
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
40 Years • MD(Internal Medicine)
Manikonda Jagir
Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir
(125+ Patients)
