5.3.4 Thyroid Health and Surrogacy: Why It Matters for a Healthy Pregnancy

At GSHC Surrogacy, ensuring the health and well-being of every surrogate mother is a top priority. Thyroid function plays a critical role in surrogacy, as it directly impacts pregnancy, fetal development, and overall health. Before beginning the surrogacy journey, every surrogate mother undergoes medical screening, including thyroid testing, to ensure optimal conditions for a healthy pregnancy.

1. Why Is Thyroid Function Important in Surrogacy?

A well-functioning thyroid is essential for pregnancy success in surrogacy. Proper thyroid function:

• Supports a healthy pregnancy – The thyroid regulates metabolism, hormone balance, and energy levels.
• Affects fetal brain and nervous system development – The baby relies on the surrogate mother's thyroid hormones in early pregnancy.
• Prevents pregnancy complications – Unregulated thyroid levels can increase risks of miscarriage, preterm birth, preeclampsia, and low birth weight.

For these reasons, GSHC Surrogacy ensures all surrogate mothers meet strict medical criteria, including normal thyroid function, before being approved for a match.

2. Understanding Hyperthyroidism vs. Hypothyroidism in Surrogacy

✅ Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid in a Surrogate Mother)

• The thyroid produces too much hormone (T3 & T4).
• Symptoms: Rapid heartbeat, weight loss, anxiety, excessive sweating, and difficulty sleeping.
• Risks in surrogacy pregnancy: Can lead to preterm birth, low birth weight, high blood pressure, and heart issues for the baby.

✅ Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid in a Surrogate Mother)

• The thyroid produces too little hormone.
• Symptoms: Fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, dry skin, and depression.
• Risks in surrogacy pregnancy: Can increase the chance of miscarriage, developmental delays, and preeclampsia.

To ensure a safe and healthy surrogacy journey, it is essential to monitor thyroid function before and during pregnancy.

3. What Are Normal Thyroid Levels for a Surrogacy Pregnancy?

Doctors assess thyroid function in surrogacy by checking TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) and free T4 levels.

✅ Recommended TSH Levels for Pregnancy:

• 1st Trimester: 0.1 – 2.5 mIU/L
• 2nd Trimester: 0.2 – 3.0 mIU/L
• 3rd Trimester: 0.3 – 3.5 mIU/L

If a surrogate mother's TSH is too high or too low, additional tests (T3, T4, and thyroid antibodies) may be required.

4. What Happens If a Surrogate Mother Has Abnormal Thyroid Levels?

• If TSH is too high (hypothyroidism):
• A surrogate mother may need thyroid medication (e.g., levothyroxine) to restore balance.
• A re-screening may be necessary before surrogacy approval.
• If TSH is too low (hyperthyroidism):
• Further evaluation may be needed to determine the cause.
• Medication may be prescribed to regulate thyroid function.
• Severe cases of hyperthyroidism may disqualify a surrogate mother if it poses a high-risk pregnancy.

Every surrogate mother at GSHC Surrogacy undergoes comprehensive medical screening to ensure she is in optimal health before moving forward with the surrogacy journey.

5. Should a Surrogate Mother See a Specialist for Thyroid Issues?

Yes! If a surrogate mother has abnormal thyroid levels, a fertility doctor may refer her to an endocrinologist—a specialist in hormone-related conditions, including thyroid disorders.

An endocrinologist will:

✔ Conduct further testing (TSH, Free T4, T3, and thyroid antibodies)

✔ Determine the cause of thyroid imbalance

✔ Prescribe medication if needed to regulate thyroid function

✔ Monitor thyroid health to ensure a safe surrogacy pregnancy

6. Ongoing Thyroid Monitoring for Surrogate Mothers During Pregnancy

If a surrogate mother is diagnosed with hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, she must follow up with her OB doctor throughout the pregnancy to ensure stable hormone levels.

✔ Regular thyroid function tests will monitor hormone balance.

✔ Medication dosages may need adjustments as pregnancy progresses.

✔ Proper thyroid management helps prevent pregnancy complications such as preterm labor, low birth weight, and developmental issues.

💡 At GSHC Surrogacy, we prioritize the health of every surrogate mother and the baby. If you experience symptoms such as extreme fatigue, heart palpitations, or unexplained weight changes, contact your OB doctor immediately.

7. Should I Be Worried If I Am Diagnosed with Hypothyroidism or Hyperthyroidism?

Not necessarily. Many people have mild thyroid imbalances that can be easily managed with medication and regular monitoring. The key to a successful surrogacy journey is early detection and treatment before pregnancy begins.

✅ With proper treatment, most surrogate mothers can safely continue their surrogacy journey.

❌ If left untreated, thyroid disorders can increase pregnancy risks. This is why medical screening at GSHC Surrogacy is so important.

💡 If you have a history of thyroid issues, inform your case manager and fertility clinic so they can support you throughout the surrogacy journey.

💡 To all surrogate mothers—don’t be alarmed if your medical screening detects a thyroid issue. In fact, this is an opportunity to maintain your own health while ensuring a safe pregnancy. Managing your thyroid levels may require extra effort, but that’s part of what it takes to help build a family and make surrogacy a success!

GSHC Surrogacy: Supporting Surrogate Mothers Every Step of the Way

At GSHC Surrogacy, we are committed to the health and well-being of every surrogate mother. Thyroid health is an important part of ensuring a successful surrogacy journey. If you have questions about your thyroid levels or need guidance, our team is here to help.

✔ Comprehensive medical screening for all surrogate mothers

✔ Access to top endocrinologists and fertility specialists

✔ Ongoing monitoring to ensure a healthy pregnancy

✔ 24/7 case management support throughout the surrogacy journey

💙 Your health matters. Your journey matters. Let’s build families together.