When you are pregnant, there are many things that you can do to ensure your health and the health of your baby. When you have diabetes, it is essential that you take extra precautions to have a healthy pregnancy. Studies show that babies born to women with diabetes are at a greater risk for birth defects because high blood glucose levels and ketones can pass through the placenta to the baby.
The most important thing you can do to ensure a healthy baby is to make sure that your diabetes is in control before you get pregnant. The better control you have of your blood glucose levels, the less chance your baby has of being born with a birth defect. Many of your babies organs are formed before you even know you are pregnant so the time to take control of your diabetes is before you try to conceive a child.
During pregnancy, careful monitoring of your diabetes will help your pregnancy to progress smoothly. If you have type 1 diabetes, being pregnant will bring changes to your insulin regiment. While you are pregnant, you will need more insulin, so your doctor will put you on a schedule to slowly increase the amount you take each month. As the placenta produces certain hormones, it causes your body to require more insulin. These hormones are important to your baby's growth, but they block the action of your insulin, meaning you will have to increase your dosage.
If you have type 2 diabetes, you might have to switch the type of oral medication that you take. Some medications, such as metformin are safe during pregnancy, but not all diabetic medications are recommended for pregnant women. Some women with type 2 diabetes are given insulin shots for the duration of their pregnancy, because it is safer than oral medication. If you control your diabetes through diet, you might need to see a dietician to help you plan menus that take into account your baby's nutritional needs.
You can also help your doctor treat you by maintaining careful records of what you eat, exercising regularly, and making sure that you eat at regularly scheduled times. If you don't have a regular exercise routine before you get pregnant, don't start a strenuous program. Choose low impact exercises such as walking, low impact aerobics, or even swimming.
Once your baby is born, your blood glucose levels may be hard to monitor. The hormones that are going through your body can make your glucose levels unpredictable, but continue to monitor them and take your medication. If you plan to nurse, talk to a dietician about planning a menu that provides the extra nutrients you need and helps keep your blood sugar levels stable.
Having a baby is a wonderful experience. Making sure your diabetes is under control when you are pregnant helps you to enjoy your pregnancy more.
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