Diabetes during pregnancy

 You may already be taking care of yourself, but pregnancy is the time when you need to take extra care. Stabilizing blood sugar levels is essential for your health and that of your baby.

 The ideal blood glucose level is 4.0-5.5 mmol/L on an empty stomach (before meals) and below 7.0 mmol/L 2 hours after meals.

 During pregnancy, some of the potential complications of diabetes, such as eye and kidney disease, can occur. Your doctor remembers this. There is also a risk of developing preeclampsia, a condition associated with high blood pressure during pregnancy that can cause problems for the baby. babies born to diabetic women are at greater-than-average risk of being born with a birth defect. They can also be born prematurely or even dead. There is also a long-term risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

 With proper control of blood sugar levels, these risks are greatly reduced.

 Drugs during pregnancy

 Many medications may need to be discontinued or changed during pregnancy, so you should check the medication before or as soon as your doctor finds out you are pregnant.

 During pregnancy, your body's needs for sugar and insulin change. This means that the medications needed to control blood sugar levels will vary. They can change frequently. Your doctor will advise you on how often to measure your blood sugar and what medications you should take.

 Some women with type 1 diabetes are advised to change their insulin intake and may be advised to use an insulin pump.

 Some women with type 2 diabetes can control their blood sugar levels early in pregnancy with diet and no medication alone. However, most women eventually need to take medication to control their blood sugar levels.

 If you want to take prescription, over-the-counter, or alternative medicines, talk to your doctor first.

 If you notice a sudden change in your medication needs or a sudden change in your blood sugar, contact your doctor.

 What can you do

 There are many things you can do:

•  If you are considering getting pregnant, start taking folic acid.
•  See your doctor early and often
•  monitor your blood sugar carefully
•  Get advice on what to eat and stick to it
•  Avoid alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs
•  Check all your medications regularly with your doctor
•  Make sure all vaccines are up to date
•  Aim for a healthy weight

 Delivery and childbirth

 You should plan the birth of your baby together with your doctor and midwife. A cesarean section may be recommended. It is recommended to give sugar and insulin during delivery. You may be advised to have a slightly earlier baby, or you may choose to have an earlier baby. With proper control of your blood sugar, you are most likely to reach maturity.