Minimizing the Effects of Diabetes and Pregnancy Complications

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Women with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes are capable of successful and safe pregnancies, although it requires extra effort and careful control of blood sugar to minimize the effects of diabetes and pregnancy complications that go along with it.

Minimizing the Effects of Diabetes and Pregnancy: Before
Before you become pregnant, make sure your blood sugar is well under control and there are no other medical issues that can interfere with a healthy pregnancy. Prepare for your pregnancy by learning how to monitor your own blood glucose and do your best to be at an ideal weight prior to conception. You should also look for an obstetrician with experience managing pregnancies complicated by Type 2 or Type 1 diabetes, not just the gestational variety. Studies show that overweight women with diabetes are more likely to have complications. Keeping your blood glucose in control also reduces the risk of birth abnormalities, making it easier to minimize the effects of diabetes and pregnancy.

Medical Care for Diabetes during Pregnancy
You’ll also need to undergo extra medical care and support during your pregnancy. This will help to minimize the effects of diabetes and pregnancy-related problems. You’ll need additional blood tests to control your blood sugar levels, plus a carefully controlled diet to manage your health and your baby’s. Because pregnancy can make hypoglycemia and ketones in the urine more likely, make sure you monitor your levels closely and keep your doctor informed. In the early stages of your pregnancy, your insulin needs will probably go down because the fetus is removing glucose from your body. During the later stages, your need for insulin will also increase, sometimes to double the level. Keep daily records of changes in your blood sugar to report to your doctor.