Diabetic Pregnancy – Health Risks And Management Tips

Strategies for a Healthy Pregnancy

Insulin is usually used to control blood sugars during pregnancy as it is safer than other types of medications for you and your baby. If you were already insulin dependant, your insulin requirements will likely rise during pregnancy.

Your weight gain will need to be controlled. A health care professional will instruct you about the best number of pounds which you need to gain.

Generally your caloric intake from fats should be limited to less than thirty percent of your daily intake. Pregnant women have a higher risk of developing gallstones. Gallstones are comprised of cholesterol. Women with diabetes often have elevated levels of cholesterol. Obtain your fats from plant based sources as they do not contain cholesterol.

An exercise program may or may not be recommended. Exercise can help keep blood sugar levels controlled; however, an individualized exercise plan is needed.

You will need to monitor and record your blood sugar levels carefully. Bring your meter or your documentation of blood sugar levels with you each time that you see your health care provider. Your health care provider will tell you what your target blood sugar goal should be.

Delivery

Since women with diabetes are more likely to experience difficult deliveries or require a caesarian section, sometimes c-sections are scheduled in advance of the due date. Other times, labor is induced.

During labor, you are not likely to need insulin; however, your needs will be closely monitored. You may not need insulin for a few days after your baby is born; however, your blood sugar levels will be closely monitored

Diabetic Pregnancy – The Bottom Line

Excellent planning and strict control of blood sugar levels are keys to staying healthy during pregnancy. It is essential that you are in your best health possible in order to ensure delivery of a healthy baby. Decreased complications during pregnancy, labor, and delivery are possible with proper management of diabetes, pregnancy, and any other health challenges which you may face. Check with your health care provider prior to becoming pregnant and on a regular basis to ensure the health of yourself and your baby.

Author

This article was written for Insights-on-Health.com in Nov 2013 by Patricia Bratianu RN PhD RH-AHG. Patricia has been a Registered Nurse for almost forty years in a wide variety of settings. As a Registered Nurse, she realized that conventional healthcare was not meeting the needs of all patients. She became an herbalist and obtained a PhD in Natural Health. Patricia is a professional member of the American Herbalist’s Guild, passing the stringent peer reviewed process to become a Registered Herbalist.

Pages: 1 2