Pregnancy

Women with diabetes should plan their pregnancies in consultation with the doctor. It is important that blood sugar levels be well controlled before conception occurs.

Diabetes and pregnancy

Many thoughts probably crossed your mind when you learned that you had diabetes. Perhaps one of them was, "Now I can't have a baby!" Yes, you can, if that is what you want. With tight control of diabetes and modern obstetrical care, the chances are excellent that you will have as safe a pregnancy and as healthy a baby as any other woman.

Considering pregnancy

If you are considering a pregnancy, you and your partner should see your doctor and other members of your diabetes care team. Together, you will review your general health and discuss any concerns you may have. You will also discuss how to control your blood sugar.

Planning a safe pregnancy

The key to a safe pregnancy is planning. You must begin planning before you become pregnant. Your blood sugar should be consistently well controlled several months before you become pregnant. Effective birth control is recommended until your blood sugar has been normal or near normal for at least two months. You must also be prepared to maintain excellent blood sugar control throughout your pregnancy.

Excellent blood sugar control

Excellent control of your blood sugar during the course of pregnancy will help minimise the risk of birth defects and decrease the risk of miscarriage. It helps your baby stay healthy and grow properly, and prevents your baby from growing too large. Large babies are a potential problem for women with poorly controlled diabetes, and they can make deliver more difficult.

Need to adjust insulin

The body undergoes major physical changes during pregnancy. Your hormone levels will change dramatically. Changing hormone levels and your growing baby will affect your need for insulin throughout the course of your pregnancy.

You Can Do It!

The success of your pregnancy depends a lot on you. It will take time and effort on your part. Yet, you are not alone. Your diabetes care team, and those people who are close to you, will do everything they can to make your pregnancy a safe and special time. Once you have that happy, healthy baby in your arms, you'll know that the effort to control your diabetes during pregnancy was well worth it.

Frequently Asked Questions on pregnancy 

APP/KOL/AC 22/02/07