Women who have just given birth often have to deal with a wide range of health issues that flare up after delivery. One of these illnesses is postpartum thyroiditis. Whilst the exact cause of this thyroiditis after pregnancy is not known, it is important that you understand how this illness affects you and what can be done about it.

Postpartum thyroiditis occurs when the thyroid gland is inflamed. One key indicator of this illness is the presence of the anti-thyroid antibodies known as anti-thyroglobulin and anti-thyroid peroxidase. Most women who suffer from this form of thyroiditis have these antibodies present before giving birth, but the actual problem develops after the delivery of the baby. In many cases, it is believed that the delivery triggers an underlying form of autoimmune thyroiditis that was already present, yet showed no noticeable symptoms. After delivery, however, symptoms often develop within the first six months.