Can pregnancy affect thyroid function test results?

Yes, pregnancy can significantly affect thyroid function test results. During pregnancy, the body produces more human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen, which can increase thyroid hormone levels, particularly T4. Many pregnant women experience changes in TSH levels due to increased demand for thyroid hormones. Pregnant women should have their thyroid function monitored regularly, as both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can impact the health of the mother and baby. Your doctor will adjust reference ranges for pregnancy to ensure accurate diagnosis and management.