What is it?

A temporary thyroid condition that happens to about 5-10% of women after giving birth. It is an autoimmune reaction (similar to Hashimoto's) that flares up when the immune system "wakes up" after pregnancy.

The Two Phases:

• Hyperthyroid Phase (Months 1-4): Anxiety, insomnia, rapid heart rate, and weight loss. Often mistaken for "new mom stress."
• Hypothyroid Phase (Months 4-8): Fatigue, depression, weight gain, poor milk supply. Often mistaken for Postpartum Depression.

Treatment:

• Mild: No treatment needed; it usually resolves on its own within 12-18 months.
• Severe: Beta-blockers for the fast heart rate or Thyroid Hormone for the fatigue phase.

Future Risks:

Women who have this have a high risk of developing permanent Hashimoto's Hypothyroidism later in life. Annual screening is recommended.