Detecting and treating thyroid nodules and cancer before, during, and after pregnancy: a patient's guide.

Some thyroid nodules can trigger hyperthyroidism (when the thyroid makes too much thyroid hormone). Thyroid nodules also may occur in people with hypothyroidism (too little thyroid hormone). These thyroid problems can affect the health of a pregnant woman and her baby. It is important to know if you have either problem, so you can receive treatment. Doctors also are concerned about thyroid nodules because some can be malignant (cancerous). Most, though, are benign (not cancerous).