Preparing For Pregnancy With Pre-Existing Diabetes

Diabetes is the most common medical complication during pregnancy, representing 3.3% of all live births.

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Despite advances, babies born to women with diabetes, especially women with poor diabetes control, are at greater risk for birth defects and are born larger than average, especially with a large head. They may also be born prematurely or even stillborn or undergo injuries during delivery. No matter what type of diabetes you have, Type 1 (insulin-dependent) or Type 2 (noninsulin-dependent), there are many steps you and your healthcare team can take in order to have a safe and healthy pregnancy. Stressing on the importance of health of the mother and the baby, Dr. Sudha Sathian of Diet and Diabetic Hospitals Group, Coimbatore, explains how and why blood sugar levels should be kept stable during pregnancy.

Whether you are trying to conceive or already pregnant, treating diabetes during pregnancy is key to the health of both you and your baby. A planned pregnancy and controlled blood sugar level of HbA1C below 6.5 %, along with healthy lifestyle choices before pregnancy can help you give your baby the healthiest start.

Type 2 diabetes taking diabetes pills to control your blood glucose, are recommended to switch to insulin, as these pills may be unsafe during pregnancy. Type 1 diabetics are usually recommended on short acting insulin and basal insulin, which is divided into 4 portions throughout the day to maintain control throughout the pregnancy.

Conditions of Diabetic Men & Women Affecting Babies