Being pregnant is one of the most exciting times in a woman’s life. However, it can also be stressful, especially for those who have diabetes.

Pregnant women with pre-existing diabetes or gestational diabetes require special attention and monitoring to ensure proper management of their blood glucose levels.

What is Diabetes during Pregnancy?

Diabetes during pregnancy refers to the presence of high blood glucose levels during pregnancy.

There are two types of diabetes that affect pregnancy: pre-existing diabetes, where the woman has diabetes before pregnancy, and gestational diabetes, which develops during pregnancy.

Preventing Diabetes during Pregnancy

The best way to prevent diabetes during pregnancy is to keep your weight in check, maintain an active lifestyle and follow a healthy diet. Women who are overweight or obese before pregnancy are more likely to develop gestational diabetes.

Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight before and during pregnancy is important.

It is also recommended that women get screened for gestational diabetes between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. If you have a history of gestational diabetes or are at a higher risk of developing it, your doctor may advise an earlier screening.

Managing Diabetes during Pregnancy

Managing diabetes during pregnancy requires careful monitoring and planning. The goal is to maintain blood glucose levels within a target range throughout pregnancy to prevent complications.

It is recommended that pregnant women with pre-existing diabetes or gestational diabetes meet with a team of healthcare professionals, including a dietician and a diabetes specialist, to develop a management plan.

The management plan may include:.

Monitoring blood glucose levels regularly
Following a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins
Exercising regularly with the advice of your healthcare provider
Taking insulin or other medications as prescribed by your healthcare provider
Tracking your weight gain

Complications of Diabetes During Pregnancy

If diabetes during pregnancy is not well managed, it can lead to complications for both the mother and baby. These complications may include:.

Macrosomia: this is when the baby grows too large, which can cause complications during delivery, such as a higher risk of a cesarean delivery
Preeclampsia: this is a condition that affects some pregnant women with high blood pressure and can cause damage to organs, including the liver and kidneys
Preterm delivery: this is when the baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy, and can lead to complications for the baby, including respiratory distress syndrome
Hypoglycemia: this is when your blood sugar drops too low, which can cause shakiness, confusion, dizziness, and fainting

Tips for Managing Diabetes During Pregnancy

Managing diabetes during pregnancy can be challenging, but with careful planning and a team of healthcare professionals, it can be done successfully. Here are some tips for managing diabetes during pregnancy:.

Eat a healthy, balanced diet
Manage your weight gain under the guidance of your healthcare provider
Monitor your blood glucose levels frequently
Stay physically active with the advice of your healthcare provider
Take medications as prescribed by your healthcare provider
Frequently communicate with your healthcare provider to address any concerns or changes in your health

Conclusion

Preventing and managing diabetes during pregnancy is crucial for the health of both the mother and baby.

Women who have diabetes before pregnancy or develop gestational diabetes require special care and monitoring to ensure that blood glucose levels are kept within the target range. With careful planning and the guidance of a healthcare team, women with diabetes can have a healthy pregnancy and give birth to a healthy baby.