Association between Hypothyroidism and Preeclampsia: A Cross-Sectional Study Evaluating Thyroid Function in Pre-eclamptic Women

Abstract Background: Preeclampsia is a major hypertensive disorder of pregnancy associated with significant maternal and fetal morbidity. Thyroid hormones play crucial roles in placental development, endothelial function, and blood pressure regulation during pregnancy. Studies have suggested a potential association between hypothyroidism and increased risk of preeclampsia, though the mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Objective: To evaluate the correlation between hypothyroidism and preeclampsia by assessing thyroid function tests in preeclamptic women and comparing them with normal pregnant women. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 40 pregnant women diagnosed with preeclampsia at a tertiary care hospital. Thyroid function tests including serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (FT4), and free triiodothyronine (FT3) were measured in all participants. Based on thyroid function results, patients were categorized into those with hypothyroidism and those with euthyroid status. Clinical characteristics and pregnancy outcomes were documented. Results: Out of 40 preeclamptic women, 25 (62.5%) had biochemical evidence of hypothyroidism (elevated TSH with or without low FT4), while 15 (37.5%) were euthyroid. The mean TSH level was significantly higher in hypothyroid preeclamptic women (6.84 ± 2.12 mIU/L) compared to euthyroid preeclamptic women (2.18 ± 0.68 mIU/L). Severe preeclampsia was more common in the hypothyroid group (68%) compared to the euthyroid group (40%). Conclusion: A significant proportion of preeclamptic women demonstrated hypothyroidism. The association between elevated TSH levels and preeclampsia suggests that hypothyroidism may be a modifiable risk factor for preeclampsia. Early thyroid screening during pregnancy may help identify high-risk women and guide appropriate management.