If you have diabetes and are thinking about trying to get pregnant, it’s a good idea to visit your doctor to talk about it. There are some potential complications that can occur when a woman has pre-gestational diabetes, including birth defects and a risk of losing the pregnancy. In fact, the rate of birth defects is 2 – 4 times higher for babies born to diabetic women. However, the risk goes down to just one percent of diabetic pregnancies when they get medical help and treatment.
Prevention is Essential!
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The best time to get assistance is before you get pregnant. Start planning to have a healthy baby now. Your regular GP should be able to help you determine if you are healthy enough to have a baby. During the appointment, your doctor should check your A1C levels to make sure your blood sugar levels are well-controlled. He or she will also draw blood and ask for a urine sample to check a variety of things, including:
- cholesterol
- kidney health
- thyroid health
Your doctor may also recommend pre-conception counseling to help you be as healthy and ready as possible for pregnancy. You might also receive a prescription for prenatal vitamins. They’ll ensure your body has enough nutrients for the crucial early weeks of pregnancy that can pass before a woman even realizes she’s going to have a child.
A Little Education…
Going to counseling beforehand helps you learn about what to expect during a diabetic pregnancy and to work on your lifestyle. This can include a weight loss program to help women reach an ideal body weight to reduce the risks of complications. The doctor may also suggest you stop drinking, smoking, or using any recreational drugs in advance of and during the potential pregnancy. You’ll also learn more about how important it is to control your blood sugar levels and create a meal plan.
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I have diabetes. What do I need to know before I get pregnant? URL Link. Accessed September 11th, 2017.
How to Plan a Pregnancy When You Have Diabetes. URL Link. Accessed September 11th, 2017.
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