Can hypothyroidism cause low milk production in new mothers?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am breastfeeding mother with TSH level 4.83 in the last trimester which is I suppose hypothyroidism. My milk supply is low. I want to know if TSH value can affect milk supply. I am on 50 mcg Eltroixin dosage now. If it does affect, I want to know what should be the normal values for TSH, free T3, free T4 value for breastfeeding mother. And if I increase the dosage, does it affect my baby through breast milk.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I just read your query and from what you mentioned it appears that you are being treated for hypothyroidism since the last trimester of your pregnancy although the TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) you mentioned was not that high as to begin therapy but still I am not aware as to what were your T3 and T4 levels at that time as well. I understand that you are breastfeeding and that your milk is not enough for the baby, well that is not related to hypothyroidism but related to your diet and fluid intake. The levels for a lactating mother is the same as a non-pregnant woman. I would still advise you to repeat your thyroid function test after delivery to know what are your levels now. Please do not increase the dose without any tests and no, it does not affect the baby adversely.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.