Normal Pregnancy for Diabetic Women…Possible?

The good news is, women with diabetes can still have normal pregnancy. It should just be carefully planned and taken cared of before, during and after pregnancy. Diabetic women should coordinate properly with their doctor first if they plan to get pregnant.

Pregnancy for diabetic women requires special care and attention since they need the help of doctors and health providers for a healthy pregnancy. Diabetes may affect the health of both the mother and her child and may cause birth defects for the baby. It can cause complications for the mother too. Proper healthcare before, during and after pregnancy help avoid these adverse effects.

Before pregnancy

If you are diabetic and plan to get pregnant, have your blood sugar level under control 3 to 6 months before getting pregnant. The unborn baby’s brain, heart, lungs and kidneys form during the 8 weeks of pregnancy. Unfortunately, most women do not know they are pregnant until 5 to 6 weeks after conception. Months before pregnancy, take more folic acid to help reduce birth defects of the unborn baby. It is most important for diabetic women so as not to bring risk to you and your baby.

During pregnancy

A diabetic pregnant woman has the chance to deliver a healthy baby provided she controls her blood sugar levels throughout the pregnancy period. Otherwise, she might have miscarriage, stillbirth, her baby might have birth defects, heart defects and might be very large – putting both herself and baby at risk during delivery.

The safest medication during pregnancy is insulin. Avoid diabetes pills as the latter might be unsafe during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor about medications. Some of them are not safe for you and your baby.

Have a healthy diet, exercise regularly and avoid stress.

After your baby arrives

After pregnancy and with your new baby around, there are certain steps you can take to manage diabetes after giving birth. Breastfeeding is recommended even with diabetic women. Taking insulin while breastfeeding is safe but taking diabetes pills is not. Eat healthy snacks before and after breastfeeding to avoid lower-than-normal blood sugar levels. Drink enough water or liquids. Check your blood sugar levels more often than usual.

Pregnancy makes the woman experience extreme highs and lows. It can be her thrilling and awesome experience, but can be scary and frustrating if you are not prepared. Controlling the blood sugar levels is the main concern for diabetic women who are pregnant. With a good and effective plan, a trouble-free pregnancy and a healthy baby can be achieved. Normal pregnancy for diabetic women? Why not?