The correlation between the thyroid function and urinary iodine/creatinine ratio of pregnant women attending a tertiary hospital in Beijing, China, during different trimesters

Abstract

Abstract Objective This study investigated the correlation between thyroid function and urinary iodine/creatinine ratio (UI/Cr) in pregnant women during different trimesters and explored potential influencing factors. Methods In this cross-sectional study, serum levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4), and UI/Cr were measured in 450 pregnant women. Correlations were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient and multiple linear regression. Subgroup analyses were performed based on age, body mass index (BMI), parity, gestational age, education, occupation, and family history of thyroid disorders. Results UI/Cr was positively correlated with FT4 levels in the first and second trimesters, particularly in women with older age, higher BMI, multiparity, higher education, and employment. No significant correlations were found between UI/Cr and TSH or FT3 levels. Conclusion UI/Cr is positively correlated with FT4 levels in early pregnancy, especially in women with certain risk factors. Regular monitoring of iodine status and thyroid function is recommended for pregnant women to ensure optimal maternal and fetal health.

Keywords

• Thyroid function
• Urinary iodine/Creatinine ratio (UI/Cr)
• Pregnant women