Symptoms

During postpartum thyroiditis, you might experience two phases. The inflammation and release of thyroid hormone might first cause mild signs and symptoms similar to those of an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), including:

• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
• Unexplained weight loss
• Increased sensitivity to heat
• Fatigue
• Tremor
• Insomnia

These signs and symptoms typically occur one to four months after delivery and last one to three months.

Later, as thyroid cells become impaired, mild signs and symptoms of underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) might develop, including:

• Lack of energy
• Increased sensitivity to cold
• Constipation
• Dry skin
• Weight gain
• Depression

These signs and symptoms typically begin four to six weeks after the symptoms of hyperthyroidism resolve and can last six to 12 months.

Keep in mind, however, that some women who have postpartum thyroiditis develop symptoms of only hyperthyroidism or only hypothyroidism.