Aerobic physical exercise in the third trimester in pregnant woman with Hashimoto`s thyroiditis: A case report

Abstract

Introduction. Physical exercise and thyroid function affect the course and outcome of pregnancy. Pregnancy conversely has an effect on exercise and the secretion of thyroid hormones. It is recommended that pregnant women without medical or obstetric complications engage in physical exercise, as correct exercise and suitable hormonal therapy reduce the risk of a negative course and outcome of the pregnancy. Case report. A 33- year-old marathon runner with diagnosed Hashimoto’s thyroiditis continued to run until she was ready to give birth. The recorded parameters were body mass, and scope and intensity of running. In the third trimester, additional recorded parameters were blood pressure, pulse, blood glucose, prolactin, cortisol and thyroid hormones [thyroxine (T4 and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)]. Foetus growth and development, as well as the status of the subject’s health, were monitored at regular endocrinological and gynaecological examinations. There was an expected increase in body mass during pregnancy, which resulted in a reduction in the running distance and intensity. TSH, cortisol and prolactin blood levels were increased. Statistically, significant correlation has been obtained between TSH and the intensity of running (r = 0.864; p = 0.027). Using the method of cardiotocography (CTG), the average pulse rate in the lower reference range has been recorded (118 bpm). The delivery was induced at the scheduled date. There were no complications in the course and outcome of the pregnancy. Conclusion. Moderate to light aerobic physical exercise had no negative effect on the course and the outcome of the pregnancy in the subject with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. [Project of the Serbian Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development, Grant no. 175037]

Keywords

• pregnancy
• fetal development
• hashimoto thyroiditis
• exercise
• delivery, obstetric