Physiology, Laboratory Testing, and Iodine
14
Recommendations Table 3. Iodine Nutrition
Strength
*
Level
#
Pregnant and lactating women should strive for a daily
iodine intake of 250 mcg as provided by dietary iodine intake
complemented by iodine supplements as required.
Strong Moderate
For women at risk of iodine deficiency given geographic
region, dietary restrictions or malabsorption, we suggest
starting 150 mcg per day iodine supplementation ideally at
least 3 months before planned pregnancy and continued
until lactation is complete.
Conditional Moderate
An annual dose of 400 mg iodized oil in women of
childbearing age and pregnant women can be given in
low-resource countries and/or regions with severe iodine
deficiency, where neither salt iodization nor daily iodine
supplements are feasible.
Conditional Moderate
We suggest applying similar iodine supplementation
recommendations for pregnant women taking antithyroid
drugs (ATDs) for Graves' hyperthyroidism and those taking
levothyroxine for hypothyroidism.
Conditional Low
Excessive iodine exposure during pregnancy should be
avoided with the exception of certain medical indications,
such as the use of saturated solution of potassium iodide
(SSKI) or iodinated contrast media.
Strong Moderate
Sustained excessive dietary iodine intake and dietary
supplements use exceeding 500 mcg daily should be avoided
during pregnancy due to concerns for fetal and maternal
thyroid dysfunction.
Strong Moderate
* Strength of Recommendation;
#
Level of Evidence; Good Practice Statement.
