TSH level when TTC

mpinpa82

Hi all, this is my first post. DH and I have been TTC #2 for about 5 months now. 

I had read about TSH levels when TTC on this board a day or two ago, and I'd like to ask a Tsh related question of my own.

i had routine bloodwork done at my internist and my Tsh came back at 3.17. My doctor never mentioned anything about it because the lab they use uses up to 5 as their within normal limits.

 I saw on here that (and with my own research) many doctors now use 3 as an upper limit, thus making my 3.17 considered hypo.

Should I call my internist or OB about this or am I borrowing trouble? Also, I've seen TSH should definitely be kept under 3 if you do get pregnant. I have also noticed that my luteal phase is usually around 10/11 days and I know being hypo might cause that?

Thanks for reading! I look forward to posting here more in the future! 

Marcilene1

I don't know about the luteal phase issue (I do know that 10-11 is normal).  As for the TSH, yes, it should be below a 3 (some doctors want to see it below a 2) if you are TTC or are already pregnant.  I would follow up with an endocrinologist if I were you. 

 

pantherRN

Normal lab values vary from lab to lab. Most places consider under 4 normal, with some considering under 5 normal. Moral of the story is, your 3.17 is probably OK.

Also, the normal level has not changed. People who are treated for thyroid problems need tighter control, which is why you've seen under 3 mentioned on the internet before.

MedLine is a trusted resource and has good info about TSH. The website is here : https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003684.htm. Sorry it isn't clicky.  

hamiltwin

My RE recommends a TSH equal to or below 2.5 mU/L as it is the upper limit of normal for TSH in the first trimester of pregnancy.  In the 2nd and 3rd trimester 3.0 mU/L is considered the upper limit of normal. As you can see there are a few different answers published on the internet.  The normal references listed above are from a very reputable source available only to physicians, called Up To Date. My RE printed out a patient handout for me explaining why they prefer TSH to be <=2.5 mU/L. I would suggest making an appointment with your Family Doctor or OB/GYN to discuss what they feel is appropriate for a TSH while TTC. Good luck!

ally510

hamiltwin:

My RE recommends a TSH equal to or below 2.5 mU/L as it is the upper limit of normal for TSH in the first trimester of pregnancy. nbsp;In the 2nd and 3rd trimester 3.0 mU/L is considered the upper limit of normal. As you can see there are a few different answers published on the internet. nbsp;The normal references listed above are from a very reputable source available only to physicians, called Up To Date. My RE printed out a patient handout for me explaining why they prefer TSH to be lt;=2.5 mU/L. I would suggest making an appointment with your Family Doctor or OB/GYN to discuss what they feel is appropriate for a TSH while TTC. Good luck!

This is the upper limit my endo and OB use while TTC. I would ask your OB about it or see an endocrinologist.

GL