Diabetes and pregnancy

Diabetes can have significant effects on pregnancies for both the mother and the developing fetus. Here are some ways that diabetes can impact pregnancy:

  1. Increased risk of birth defects: Poorly controlled diabetes during the first few weeks of pregnancy can increase the risk of birth defects such as heart defects, neural tube defects, and kidney problems.

  2. Macrosomia: High blood sugar levels in the mother can cause the baby to grow larger than normal, a condition called macrosomia. This can make delivery difficult and increase the risk of injury to both the mother and baby.

  3. Preterm birth: Women with diabetes are at increased risk of delivering their baby before 37 weeks of gestation, which can increase the risk of complications for the baby.

  4. Preeclampsia: Women with diabetes are at increased risk of developing preeclampsia, a serious condition that can cause high blood pressure, swelling, and damage to organs such as the liver and kidneys.

  5. Gestational diabetes: Some women develop diabetes during pregnancy, a condition called gestational diabetes. This can increase the risk of complications for both the mother and baby.

  6. Neonatal hypoglycemia: Babies born to women with diabetes are at increased risk of low blood sugar levels after birth, which can cause seizures and other complications.

Managing diabetes during pregnancy requires close monitoring and treatment by a healthcare team, including an obstetrician, endocrinologist, and diabetes educator. Women with diabetes may need to adjust their medication doses, monitor their blood sugar levels frequently, and follow a specific meal plan to manage their diabetes during pregnancy.



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