Question
My boyfriend has had Graves’ disease for a year and has been treated. Now that we are getting married this year, we want to have a baby. I wonder if his condition can be inherited by our child? I’m really scared, but I really love him and want to have a baby that is the fruit of our love. However, I’m also worried because I don’t want a sick baby.
Answer
Hyperthyroidism is indeed related to some degree of genetic factors. If there is no history of genetic diseases in the family, Graves’ disease usually poses no problem. However, Graves’ disease and the medications used to treat it can have an impact on the fetus, potentially causing birth defects. It is recommended to wait until the condition is completely cured before trying to conceive. May you have a beautiful and healthy baby.