Endocrine System

Endocrine System

The pituitary gland increases in size and proclatin, the hormone responsible for milk production, increases. Corticotrophin and cortisol levels increase, and together with placental lactogen, lead to insulin resistance which favours hyperglycaemia and the development of gestational diabetes. During pregnancy, thyroxine-binding globulin, thyroxine (T4) and tri-iodothyronine (T3) concentrations increase but the pregnant women should remain euthyroid, as the levels of free T3 and T4 remain unchanged. There is an increased renal clearance of iodine and a relative state of iodine deficiency may develop, leading to enlargement of the thyroid gland.