Treatment is more complex for people with Graves’ disease who are pregnant because considerations need to be made for the thyroid function of both the mother and fetus. Antithyroid medications are the first line of treatment, and dosages are carefully adjusted to bring the mother’s thyroid hormone levels down to the upper limits of normal range (or slightly higher), without causing hypothyroidism in the developing fetus.[1] Radioactive iodine therapy is contraindicated during pregnancy because it can cause hypothyroidism in the fetus. Surgery may be considered if it is necessary for the mother’s health, but is not the first line of therapy. In cases in which surgery is warranted, it is generally delayed until the second trimester, when it poses less risk to the pregnancy.[2][3][1]
How is Graves’ disease treated in people who are pregnant?
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•Last Updated: April 23, 2025
Graves' disease treatment during pregnancy focuses on carefully managing antithyroid medications to maintain maternal thyroid levels while preventing fetal hypothyroidism. Radioactive iodine therapy is avoided, and surgery, if needed, is typically postponed until the second trimester to reduce risks.