Investigating thyroid function in pregnancy

The scope of thyroid disease during pregnancy is similar to that in the normal female population (see Box 1); however, it is considerably more common with 2 to 3% of pregnant women affected. Prompt diagnosis and evidence-based management of thyroid disease is essential to reduce the associated risk of maternal and fetal complications (Table 1). In most situations diagnosis depends on the judicious use of biochemical tests of thyroid function.