The Power of Preconception Planning: A Guide for Women with Diabetes
- alleywayy
- Sep 7, 2023
- 3 min read
Diabetes has become one of the most prevalent chronic diseases in the world, affecting more than 400 million people globally. Women with diabetes who wish to have children need to be extra careful during pregnancy to ensure the best outcomes for both mother and child. Preconception planning involves getting your body ready for pregnancy before conception, and this is particularly important for women with diabetes. In this article, we’ll discuss preconception planning for women with diabetes and why it’s essential for better pregnancy outcomes.
Meet with your healthcare team
Before you start planning to conceive, it is crucial to meet with your healthcare team, which may include a primary care physician, endocrinologist, diabetes educator, and obstetrician/gynecologist (OBGYN) who specializes in high-risk pregnancies. Your healthcare team will help you assess your overall health, blood sugar levels, medications, and other factors that may affect your pregnancy. They can also recommend dietary and lifestyle changes as well as medications adjustments to ensure optimal control of your blood sugar levels.
Get your blood sugar levels under control
High blood sugar levels during pregnancy may affect the health of the fetus, causing developmental delays, and increasing the risk of birth defects. It is essential to get your blood sugar levels under control before you conceive and maintain them throughout the pregnancy. Keeping your blood sugar levels within the target range will also reduce the risk of developing complications such as gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, and premature birth.
Incorporate a healthy diet and exercise regimen
Incorporating a healthy diet and exercise regimen before pregnancy can help control your blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing gestational diabetes during pregnancy. Consult with a registered dietitian and a diabetes educator to create a personalized meal plan that meets your nutritional needs while ensuring adequate intake of essential nutrients. Exercise can also help improve blood sugar control, boost your energy levels and may improve fertility. You should aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise daily, depending on your fitness level.
Update your medication and supplements regimen
Before you conceive, you should review your medication and supplement regimen with your healthcare provider. Some medications, including certain diabetes medications, ACE inhibitors, and statins can be harmful to the fetus. Your healthcare provider may recommend alternatives or adjust your medication doses, where necessary. Folic acid supplements are also essential to take before and during pregnancy to help prevent neural tube defects, and your healthcare provider may recommend additional supplements depending on your needs.
Schedule preconception tests and evaluations
Before you conceive, you should undergo a series of preconception tests such as a comprehensive eye exam, dental exam, and kidney function tests. These tests will help detect any complications related to diabetes that may affect your pregnancy. Your healthcare team may also order genetic tests to detect the risk of passing down inherited diseases to the baby.
Preconception planning is essential for women with diabetes who are planning to conceive. It can help them achieve optimal blood sugar control, reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy and ensure a safe and successful pregnancy outcome. The key to successful preconception planning is proper communication and coordination with your healthcare team, incorporating healthy lifestyle choices and dietary modifications, and updating your medication regimen. With proper preconception planning, many women with diabetes go on to have successful pregnancies and healthy babies. Take charge of your health today and set yourself up for a successful pregnancy journey.
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