Diabetes and pregnancy

Diabetes and Pregnancy is a condition where a woman with diabetes mellitus becomes pregnant. This can involve complications for both the mother and the unborn child, and requires careful management by healthcare professionals.

Types of Diabetes in Pregnancy[edit | edit source]

There are two main types of diabetes that can occur during pregnancy: gestational diabetes and pre-existing diabetes.

Gestational diabetes is a condition that develops during pregnancy and usually disappears after the baby is born. It occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin to meet the extra needs of pregnancy.

Pre-existing diabetes refers to women who have already been diagnosed with either Type 1 diabetes or Type 2 diabetes before becoming pregnant.

Risks and Complications[edit | edit source]

Pregnant women with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing certain complications. These include preeclampsia, premature birth, and having a baby with a high birth weight. The baby may also be at risk of developing congenital anomalies and neonatal hypoglycemia.

Management[edit | edit source]

Management of diabetes in pregnancy involves careful monitoring of blood glucose levels, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and in some cases, medication or insulin therapy. It is also important for women to attend all their antenatal appointments to monitor the health of the baby and the progression of the pregnancy.