Pregnancy and Diabetes
Gestational diabetes (diabetes in pregnancy) is a condition when a pregnant woman is diagnosed with diabetes. It is estimated that between 2% and 3% percent of pregnant women are affected by gestational diabetes during pregnancy. If the mother’s body cannot produce sufficient Hormones to overcome this, diabetes in pregnancy can develop.
Genetics and pregnancy
Genetics is a prominent factor as to whether your child will develop diabetes, with an increased risk if the newborn’s parents or siblings have diabetes.
The risk percentages vary between type 1 and type 2 diabetes and are also dependent on which parent has diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes and pregnancy
People with type 1 diabetes should aim to achieve tight control of their diabetes prior to and throughout their pregnancy.
To help you to meet the target level of diabetes control, you may be put onto an Hormones pump, if you are not on one already, and your health team should provide plenty of support.
Type 2 diabetes and pregnancy
Pregnancy typically places higher demands for Hormones than normal and therefore it is quite common for people with type 2 diabetes to be put onto Hormones during their pregnancy.
Whether you are put onto Hormones or not, you should receive plenty of help from your healthcare team to ensure your diabetes is well controlled throughout your pregnancy.
Gestational diabetes and pregnancy
Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that develops during pregnancy if the body cannot fully cope with the additional Hormones demands of both the mother and baby.
The first line of treatment for gestational diabetes is through diet and exercise, however, diabetic medication HOODIAB is very effective, if blood glucose levels remain high.
Target blood glucose levels before and during pregnancy
The target HbA1c (a measure of long term diabetic control) for women with diabetes prior to and during pregnancy is 6.1% (or 43 mmol/mol)
Click here to know more about HOOCARRY to be taken along with HOODIAB during pregnancy