-
Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners
How can my existing type 2 diabetes affect my pregnancy?
Related Topics
-
Find a professional to answer your question
Find a professional to answer your question Search Now
-
Carolien Koreneff
Counsellor, Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE), Diabetes Educator, Psychotherapist, Registered Nurse
Carolien Koreneff is a Somatic (body-oriented) psychotherapist, Health Coach, Counsellor as well as a Credentialed Diabetes Educator with over 20 years experience. She currently sees … View Profile
High sugars are a risk in pregnancy. The fetus is very sensitive to sugar, and therefore, the body usually lowers the glucose threshold in healthy individuals. If you have pre-existing diabetes, whether it's Type 1 or Type 2, there is an increased risk of fetal malformation. Therefore it is crucial that there is good blood sugar level control prior to the pregnancy for at least three months. It is important for healthy individuals to take folic acid months before planning a pregnancy to avoid fetal malformations however people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes have a tenfold increased risk of malformation. Therefor I usually recommend at least three months, but preferably six or more, before planning the pregnancy to start with folic acid treatment. It is also recommended that people living with diabetes take a higher dose of folic acid than the general population. This would mean taking 5 milligrams of folic acid rather than 0.5 milligrams.
People with pre-existing diabetes can have a healthy baby, it just requires planning. Talk to your endocrinologist or Credentialed Diabetes Educator if you are thinking of planning a pregnancy, so they can help you!Report this post
You must be a HealthShare member to report this post. to your account or now (it's free).
You may also like these related questions
-
I have been on 140 units per day for ages. How would I know if I am taking too much insulin? Or if the insulin is actually working?
How would I know if I am taking too much insulin? Or if the insulin is actually working? Apart from low blood sugar levels, of course.
I have been on 140 units per day for ages, lately my FBSL has b… Read More -
How to deal with the loss of a child?
-
Is there a link between breastfeeding and developing Type 2 Diabetes?
