Planning for a Pregnancy When You Have Diabetes
Planning for pregnancy when you have diabetes is essential to ensure a healthy pregnancy and baby. Women with diabetes are at a higher risk of experiencing complications during pregnancy and childbirth. However, by planning ahead and working closely with your GP and diabetes team, you can significantly reduce these risks and increase the likelihood of having a healthy baby.
How to Prepare for Pregnancy with Diabetes
Regardless of whether you have type 1, type 2, or another form of diabetes, it’s important to take the following steps:
You’re not alone in planning for pregnancy when you have diabetes. With proper preparation and support from your healthcare team, you can reduce the risks and have a healthy pregnancy.
Knowing the Risks of Possible Complications
There are specific risks associated with pregnancy and diabetes, such as:
- Complications with your eyes and kidneys may worsen.
- Larger babies may increase the likelihood of a cesarean delivery.
- Increased risk of serious birth defects like spina bifida.
- Higher risk of miscarriage or stillbirth.
The best way to reduce these risks is to plan your pregnancy carefully, stay informed, and seek support from your healthcare team. You can also use resources like the Planning for Pregnancy Tool by Tommy’s charity to help guide you through the process.
Managing Blood Sugar Levels and Medications
Managing your blood sugar is critical when preparing for pregnancy. Aim to:
- Check your HbA1c and ensure it’s below 48mmol/mol before stopping contraception. If your HbA1c is over 86mmol/mol, it’s not safe to get pregnant, and you should seek advice.
- Monitor your blood sugar regularly and try to keep your levels within target ranges. Typical targets include:
- 5 to 7mmol/l upon waking.
- 4 to 7mmol/l before meals.
- 5 to 9mmol/l 90 minutes after meals.
Check your medications, as some may not be safe for pregnancy, such as statins and certain blood pressure medications. Consult your GP about switching to safe alternatives like metformin or insulin.
Taking Folic Acid and Screening for Complications
Women with diabetes should take 5mg of folic acid daily, starting at least 12 weeks before trying to conceive and continuing through the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. This can only be prescribed by a doctor.
It’s important to screen for eye and kidney complications before getting pregnant, as pregnancy can worsen conditions like diabetic retinopathy. Early screening and intervention can help prevent long-term damage.
Emotional and Practical Support
Diabetes makes pregnancy more complex, but support is available. Make sure to involve your partner, family, and friends in your journey. Additionally, our helpline and online forum provide a community of support from others going through similar experiences.
Remember, managing your diabetes carefully, consulting your healthcare team regularly, and planning ahead can significantly reduce the risks and make the journey to parenthood a safe and positive experience.
For more information, visit our Pregnancy and Diabetes page.
Diabetes and fertility
Having diabetes shouldn’t affect your fertility (your ability to get pregnant).
If you’re finding it difficult to get pregnant, it’s a good idea to talk to your GP. They will be able to give you more advice.