Can a New Mother Breastfeed While Hypothyroid?

Question: Can a New Mother Breastfeed While Hypothyroid?

Many women want their new babies to have the health benefits of breastfeeding. But women are also told to be careful about medications and medical treatments while nursing. This FAQ answers key questions regarding breastfeeding for women who are being treated for thyroid disease -- including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.

Answer: Yes. There's no reason why a woman who is hypothyroid and on thyroid hormone replacement shouldn't or can't breastfeed under normal circumstances.

If a woman is hypothyroid, and taking an optimal doses of thyroid replacement medication, she should be able to breastfeed her baby normally. Keep in mind, however, that in some women, the hormonal shifts that occur right after delivery can cause a rapid change in thyroid function. Anecdotally, there seems to be a slight increase in low milk supply even in hypothyroid women who are receiving optimal thyroid treatment after delivery.

Most new mothers with a preexisting thyroid condition should have a thyroid evaluation within a few weeks of delivery, to check for shifts in thyroid function. But if a woman is hypothyroid, and her nursing baby is losing weight, slow to gain weight, or isn't having the requisite number of bowel movements and wet diapers, she should request a thorough thyroid evaluation right away.

Read more Frequently Asked Questions About Breastfeeding and Thyroid Disease

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