Planning For Pregnancy With Diabetes

DL diabetes educator Dr Kate Marsh explains the steps you can take to give you and your baby the best chance of a healthy pregnancy

- DR Kate Marsh

All women can benefit from planning a pregnancy, but being prepared is even more important if you have diabetes. Women with diabetes can have a healthy baby, but there are some risks associated with having diabetes in pregnancy, and planning can help to reduce the risks. Follow these steps to give you and your baby the best chance of having a healthy pregnancy. Use contraception until you are ready An unplanned pregnancy can be problematic for many reasons, but particularly in women with diabetes. A baby’s major organs develop during the first eight weeks of gestation. This makes it important that blood glucose levels are as close to target as possible when you conceive, and during early pregnancy. So, ask your doctor for help to choose the best contraception for you and your partner until you are ready to conceive.

Start planning early

Start planning and preparing for pregnancy at least 3-6 months before you try for a baby. This gives you time to review your diabetes management and general health and to optimise blood glucose levels and lifestyle habits. While it is important to discuss your individual blood glucose targets with your doctor or diabetes team, most women with diabetes are encouraged to aim for a HbA1c of less than 7 per cent for at least three months prior to conception.

Assemble your care team

There are several health professionals who can help you in planning (and managing) your pregnancy, although the members of your care team may vary depending on the availability in your local area and whether you are using public or private health care services.

Your care team might include: