Thyroid problems are fairly common after childbirth, but the symptoms can be confused with other postpartum conditions. Note whether you experience any of the following common signs of postpartum thyroid conditions and contact your doctor.

__ Milk supply difficulties

__ Extreme fatigue

__ Hair loss

__ Depression

__ Mood changes

__ Problems losing weight

__ Unusually rapid weight loss

__ Heart palpitations

__ Menstrual irregularities

__ Sleep disorders

Some women have temporary postpartum hyperthyroidism—an overactive thyroid, with weight loss, diarrhea, racing heart, anxiety, and other symptoms of a revved up metabolism. Doctors may prescribe drugs to ease symptoms, but this condition often resolves itself quickly. Other women can develop temporary postpartum hypothyroidism — an underactive thyroid — with fatigue, weight gain, constipation, depression, and other symptoms of a slowed-down metabolism. Again, medication may be prescribed, depending on the severity of symptoms, and frequently the thyroid will return to normal within 6 months to a year after the birth.