Diabetes and pregnancy: What you need to know

Megan Schellinger, DO

Maternal and Fetal Medicine

Women with diabetes need special care before, during and after pregnancy. If you are diabetic and pregnant or are considering getting pregnant, Megan M. Schellinger, DO, said there are steps you can take to reduce the risks for you and your baby.

What to do before you become pregnant

If you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, the first step to a healthy pregnancy involves working with your doctor to get your blood sugar levels within your target range before you become pregnant.

“The critical stages of development for a baby begin within the first eight weeks, when a woman may not know she is pregnant,” Dr. Schellinger said.

Achieving blood sugar targets is important throughout pregnancy. High blood sugar increases the risks of complications for both mother and baby.

Dr. Schellinger said even though women with diabetes are at higher risk for complications, they can have a successful pregnancy and healthy baby with diabetes care and close monitoring.

“It’s important for a woman with diabetes to have a team of health care professionals guiding her through her pregnancy. Your care team should include your OB/GYN, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, a diabetes educator and an endocrinologist, when appropriate.”

How to lower your risk of complications during pregnancy

You can help control your glucose level with a combination of a healthy diet, exercise and taking medications as directed by your doctor. You may need to see your provider more often than usual during your pregnancy to check your glucose level and for additional monitoring.

“Eating a well-balanced, healthy diet is a critical part of any pregnancy,” Dr. Schellinger said. “Your baby depends on the food you eat for growth and nourishment. In women with diabetes, diet is even more important. Not eating properly can cause your glucose level to go too high or too low.”

Exercise helps keep your glucose level in the normal range. It also has many other benefits such as controlling your weight, boosting your energy, aiding sleep and reducing backaches, constipation and bloating.

What to expect when it’s time to deliver

“Don’t be surprised if your doctor suggests that labor be induced earlier than your due date, especially if problems with the pregnancy arise,” said Dr. Schellinger.

While you are in labor, your glucose level will be monitored closely – typically every hour. If needed, you may receive insulin through an intravenous (IV) line. If you use an insulin pump, your provider will review glycemic control in labor with you and formulate a plan.

After your baby arrives

Breastfeeding is highly recommended for women with diabetes because it gives the baby the best nutrition to stay healthy – and it’s good for mom, too.

“Breastfeeding can help new mothers shed the extra weight they may have gained during pregnancy and causes the uterus to return to its pre-pregnancy size more quickly,” said Dr. Schellinger.

Get breastfeeding tips right here on Flourish.