Ever heard of a tiny gland in your neck messing with your pregnancy? Sounds odd, right? But that's what can happen when hyperparathyroidism sneaks into the picture. While most mums-to-be focus on morning sickness, food cravings, or baby names, there's an under-the-radar condition that could affect both mother and baby: hyperparathyroidism during pregnancy. And trust us, it's worth knowing about!

Let's dive into what it is, how to spot it, and most importantly, how to tackle it safely.

What is hyperparathyroidism and how does it affect pregnancy?

Hyperparathyroidism is when your parathyroid glands produce too much parathyroid hormone (PTH). These four small glands near your thyroid are responsible for managing calcium levels in your body. During pregnancy, the stakes are higher because both you and your growing baby need calcium for healthy bones and muscles.

When there's too much PTH, it pulls calcium from your bones and dumps it into your bloodstream. That might sound harmless, but high calcium levels (called hypercalcaemia) can lead to a host of problems, from kidney stones and bone weakness to complications during childbirth.

In pregnancy, hyperparathyroidism is rare, but when it occurs, it can have serious consequences like miscarriage, preterm delivery, low birth weight, and neonatal hypocalcaemia (low calcium in newborns).

What are the symptoms of hyperparathyroidism in pregnancy?

Here's the tricky part: symptoms of hyperparathyroidism often mimic regular pregnancy complaints. Think fatigue, nausea, muscle weakness, or constipation. Sounds familiar, right?

However, some red flags stand out more clearly:

  • Persistent nausea and vomiting beyond the usual morning sickness window
  • Excessive thirst and frequent urination
  • Bone pain or muscle cramps
  • Mood changes or depression
  • Kidney stones (which are more than just painful—they can be dangerous during pregnancy)
  • High blood pressure or heart palpitations

Since these symptoms can overlap with typical pregnancy issues, it's important to trust your gut. If something feels off or unusually severe, don't brush it aside.

How is hyperparathyroidism diagnosed during pregnancy?

Diagnosis begins with a simple blood test. If your calcium levels are high, doctors will follow up with tests to measure PTH levels. Sometimes, vitamin D levels are also checked to rule out other causes.

Ultrasound imaging is generally the safest during pregnancy to look at the parathyroid glands. CT scans and nuclear imaging are avoided due to radiation risks. So, early detection often relies on vigilant monitoring and regular antenatal check-ups.

Remember: if you've had calcium issues before or a family history of parathyroid problems, let your doctor know early in your pregnancy.

What are the risks to the baby and mother?

High calcium levels in pregnancy don't just affect the mum—they can cross the placenta and mess with the baby's delicate hormonal balance. Some of the major risks include:

  • Miscarriage or stillbirth
  • Preterm delivery
  • Neonatal hypocalcaemia (leading to muscle spasms or seizures in newborns)
  • Poor growth in the womb

For mothers, untreated hyperparathyroidism can lead to pancreatitis, kidney stones, and even a hypercalcaemic crisis, an emergency condition that can be life-threatening.

This is why staying alert to the signs and sticking to prenatal appointments is more than just ticking a box; it's protecting both lives.

What is the treatment for hyperparathyroidism in pregnancy?

Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and how far along you are in pregnancy.

  • Mild cases may be managed with close monitoring, hydration, and a low-calcium diet.
  • Moderate to severe cases might require surgery to remove the overactive parathyroid gland, especially during the second trimester (considered the safest window for surgery).
  • Medication is sometimes used if surgery isn't an option. However, not all medicines are pregnancy-safe. That's why it's crucial to discuss any treatment thoroughly with your doctor.

One medication that is occasionally used to control calcium levels is Cinacalcet, but it must be prescribed with extreme caution, as research on its use in pregnancy is still limited.

Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any treatment. Medicines during pregnancy should be taken only when the benefits clearly outweigh the risks.

Can hyperparathyroidism be confused with thyroid problems?

Absolutely. It's quite common for people to mix up thyroid and parathyroid conditions. While they're close neighbours in your neck, they handle completely different jobs.

Your thyroid regulates metabolism, energy, and mood. The parathyroids, on the other hand, focus solely on calcium regulation.

A lot of people search for facts about thyroid and assume it covers everything hormonal in the neck. But it's crucial to make the distinction. Misdiagnosis can lead to the wrong treatment, especially in pregnancy.

If you're experiencing fatigue, mood swings, or weight changes, ask your doctor to check both thyroid and parathyroid levels. One doesn't replace the other.

How can women manage their health better during pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a full-time job, both joyful and exhausting. But keeping an eye on unusual symptoms, getting regular check-ups, and being honest with your doctor can go a long way.

Here are a few simple tips:

  • Track your symptoms: Keep a journal and note any patterns or persistent issues.
  • Don't ignore warning signs: If something feels stronger than normal pregnancy discomfort, get it checked.
  • Eat a balanced diet: Include calcium, but not in excess, especially if hyperparathyroidism is suspected.
  • Stay hydrated and active: It supports kidney function and bone health.
  • Educate yourself: Knowing what's normal (and what's not) helps you speak up confidently.

In some cases, your doctor might prescribe something like PTH 30mg Tablet to regulate your condition, but that's a decision best made under close supervision.

Awareness around women's health has grown significantly in recent years, but conditions like hyperparathyroidism still fly under the radar. By being proactive and informed, expectant mothers can better protect themselves and their babies from preventable risks.

Final Thoughts

Hyperparathyroidism in pregnancy might be rare, but its effects can be serious. The key is awareness. When you understand what your body is going through, you're better equipped to seek the right help at the right time.

Every woman's pregnancy journey is different. But one thing remains constant: your health directly shapes your baby's future. So never hesitate to ask questions, get that extra test, or push for clarity.

Because in the grand adventure of motherhood, knowledge truly is power.