Hashimoto’s & IVF

[CEllenx]

Hi everyone

Looking for some advice/ experience

I am a 30 year old trying to conceive.
I have PCOS, hypothyroidism, and have recently been diagnosed with really high thyroid antibodies - (Hashimotos)

I have an appointment with an Endocrine Consultant later this month, and due to start IVF the following month

I am now worried that the thyroid antibodies may destroy my embryo when I have my IVF transfer - there’s research that shows it may stop it from working

• should I be on steroids when starting my IVF?
• Is there anything else i need to know about ?
• Anyone have experience of this?
• Do my levels need re- testing whilst being pregnant?

I would appreciate any help :)

@CEllenx I too have Thyroid Antibodies but am currently 'euthroid' meaning my TSH is currently where they'd like to see it for a pregnancy (undr 2.5 pmol).

For the FET I am on steroids (Prednisolone) in relation to the thyroid antibodies to suppress my immune system. I had a FET last month that was BFN-embryos have not been tested so it could have been an abnormal one (I'm 38 so highly possible).

I understand the only thing worth re testing is TSH levels to ensure they stay under 2.5, and they should really be continously tested throughout a pregnancy to monitor whether Levothyroxine is required (the GP should be able to do this).

Regarding thyroid antibodies I asked about retesting and was advised there was no point as their presence in itself demonstrates possible Hashimoto's either currently or in the future, so monitoring levels is of no benefit.

What were your levels?

@Sunflower360 Thank you for replying to me :)

my levels were :
Thyroglobulin Antibodies = 402
Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies = >600

i will be having an FET too!

When did you start your Pred ? Did you start for the egg collection or just for the FET?

@CEllenx I started Prednisolone on day 2 of my period and that will be in place until either a negative pregnancy test, or if negative will carry on I think for 7-12 weeks I believe. Is this something you are looking to discuss with your consultant?

@Sunflower360 yes I’m going to ask the consultant next week if he thinks I should take it as I have my IVF appointment the week after

what were your antibody levels ?

@CEllenx mine were 275 if I recall correctly, they can fluctuate though and that was back in November