The process is normally self-limiting, but when conventional antibodies are found there is a high chance of this proceeding to permanent hypothyroidism.

The second phase of hypothyroid symptoms is also transient and can occur anytime within the three- to twelve-month period postpartum.

[3] Women in this phase experience low energy, poor memory, impaired concentration, carelessness, dry skin, cold intolerance, and general aches and pains.

[5] As a result, following delivery, the immune system rebounds causing levels of thyroids antibodies to rise in susceptible women.

A suppressed TSH could represent the hyperthyroid phase, but warrants further testing to investigate for possible Graves' disease.

[6] For most women, the hyperthyroid phase presents with very mild symptoms or is asymptomatic; intervention is usually not required.

[3] Asymptomatic women with slightly elevated TSH levels who are planning subsequent pregnancies, should consider a course of treatment until completion of the family to avoid possible developmental complications in future children.