NCC Credential in Inpatient Antepartum Nursing (RNC-IAP) Practice Test

Hypothyroidism during pregnancy slows the body's metabolism because there is not enough thyroid hormone to drive the usual energy use. This leads to fatigue, weight gain, constipation, and a slower heart rate. The decreased basal metabolic rate and reduced autonomic activity contribute to these signs: energy tends to be low, weight can rise despite normal or reduced intake, gut motility slows causing constipation, and bradycardia appears from the lower cardiac drive. These symptoms contrast with hyperthyroid presentations, which include heat intolerance, tachycardia, weight loss, diarrhea, nervousness, and tremor. Recognizing the hypothyroid pattern in pregnancy is important for timely treatment to support both maternal health and fetal development.