Postpartum Thyroiditis: What New Mothers Should Be Aware Of

Bringing new life into the world changes everything, including your body in ways you might not expect.

One condition that often flies under the radar is postpartum thyroiditis.

Even if you’re doing “everything right” as a new mother, thyroid health can silently impact your energy, emotions, and recovery.

Being aware of it means you can take quick action and protect not just your health but also how you show up for your baby and yourself.

Postpartum thyroiditis is an inflammation of the thyroid gland that occurs within the first year after childbirth.

The thyroid, located at the base of your neck, controls your metabolism and energy levels by releasing vital hormones.

In postpartum thyroiditis, the thyroid may first become overactive (hyperthyroidism) and later under active (hypothyroidism) or sometimes go directly to an under active phase.

Many new mothers may think it’s just part of being exhausted after childbirth—but it’s not always that simple.

According to studies published on PubMed, approximately 5–10% of women experience postpartum thyroiditis, but many cases are missed or misdiagnosed.

Researchers believe postpartum thyroiditis is largely an autoimmune disorder.

During pregnancy, your immune system quiets down to protect the baby. After delivery, it “wakes up”—sometimes attacking the thyroid gland.

You’re at higher risk if you:

The tricky thing?

Postpartum thyroiditis symptoms overlap with normal postpartum exhaustion making them easy to miss.

You might experience:

Hyperthyroid Phase (1–4 months postpartum):

Hypothyroid Phase (4–8 months postpartum):

Some women go through only one phase, others both.

And for about 20–30% of women (according to PubMed studies), the hypothyroidism becomes permanent, requiring lifelong treatment.

If you’re feeling “off” and symptoms don’t improve after a few months postpartum, ask your doctor for a thyroid function test.

A simple blood test checks:

Early diagnosis is key to feeling better and avoiding long-term complications.

Not every woman needs treatment.

It depends on the phase and severity of symptoms:

Good news: Most medications prescribed for thyroid issues are safe while breastfeeding—but always confirm with your doctor.

Unchecked postpartum thyroiditis can:

Recognizing and treating thyroid problems early gives you the strength to heal, enjoy your baby, and feel like yourself again.

If you’re feeling more exhausted, overwhelmed, or “off” than seems normal after having a baby, trust yourself.

Postpartum thyroiditis is common, but with awareness and care, it’s absolutely manageable.

As mothers, we often put ourselves last.

But remembering that your health is the foundation of your family’s well-being can give you the courage to seek support when you need it.

Because strong, healthy mothers raise strong, healthy children, and you deserve nothing less.