Medically reviewed and verified by Kate Burke, MD, MHA
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Pregnancy can be an exciting time for many soon-to-be parents! However, if you have Type 1 diabetes, it can come with its own set of challenges. Women with Type 1 can absolutely have healthy pregnancies! The key is staying on top of your health and keeping an extra close eye on your baby’s well-being.
Preconception counseling and tight blood sugar control are essential to minimize pregnancy risks, especially during the first trimester. If your blood sugar isn’t well-controlled during this time, it could affect your baby's development and raise the chances of health problems for you and your baby.
The American Diabetes Association recommends maintaining HbA1c below 6.5% and working closely with your doctor to be sure to avoid low blood sugars as well. Recommendations also include using a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to maintain blood sugar control.
How to prepare for pregnancy with Type 1 diabetes
Get blood sugar levels checked: Work with your healthcare team to get your HbA1c (a measure of your average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months) into the target range. This helps reduce the risk of complications.
Schedule a preconception checkup: Before trying to conceive, talk to your endocrinologist and OB-GYN. They can work with you to form a diabetes and pregnancy plan and review your current list of medications.
Eat healthy: Working with a dietitian to create a balanced meal plan to manage blood sugar levels can be helpful.
Prepare emotionally: Pregnancy can be an emotional rollercoaster, so it's important to surround yourself with supportive friends, family, or a therapist to help manage pregnancy stress.
Click here to learn more about Type 1 Diabetes.
What are the potential risks?
High blood sugar levels can lead to complications such as preeclampsia, premature birth, and an increased risk of birth defects. Whereas low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can cause dizziness and fainting.
Women with Type 1 diabetes face a higher risk of certain pregnancy complications. These might include:
Macrosomia: An unusually large baby, which can complicate deliveries.
Preterm Birth: Babies born before 37 weeks may face health issues related to lung development and other organs.
Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): A serious condition that occurs when the body starts breaking down fat for energy, leading to a buildup of ketones in the blood. This can be life-threatening for both mother and baby.
How to prepare for pregnancy with Type 1 diabetes
Regular Blood Sugar Monitoring: Frequent monitoring of blood glucose levels becomes even more critical during pregnancy. The American Diabetes Association strongly recommends using a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to provide feedback for tight blood sugar control for the healthiest mom and baby.
Diet and Nutrition: A balanced diet is crucial for managing blood sugar levels. Work with a dietitian to create a meal plan that supports your health and meets the nutritional needs of your growing baby.
Insulin Therapy: Pregnant women with Type 1 diabetes often require adjustments to their insulin therapy, as insulin needs may increase as pregnancy progresses.
Regular Prenatal Care: Frequent visits to your OB-GYN and endocrinologist are important to monitor your and your baby's health. Ultrasounds and other tests will help track the baby’s growth and development and ensure that any complications are addressed promptly.
How to manage diabetes during pregnancy
Regular Blood Sugar Monitoring: Frequent monitoring of blood glucose levels becomes even more critical during pregnancy. You may need to check your blood sugar multiple times daily.
Diet and Nutrition: A balanced diet is crucial for managing blood sugar levels. Work with a dietitian to create a meal plan that supports your health and meets the nutritional needs of your growing baby.
Insulin Therapy: Pregnant women with Type 1 diabetes often require adjustments to their insulin therapy, as insulin needs may increase as pregnancy progresses.
Regular Prenatal Care: Frequent visits to your OB-GYN and endocrinologist are important to monitor your and your baby's health. Ultrasounds and other tests will help track the baby’s growth and development and ensure that any complications are addressed promptly.
How to manage diabetes postpartum
After you’ve delivered, your blood sugar levels might change, and monitoring your insulin therapy closely is necessary. You’ll also need to monitor for any postpartum complications and adjust your diabetes management routine as needed. Your healthcare team will support you every step of the way!
Pregnancy with Type 1 diabetes requires careful planning, consistent monitoring, and a supportive healthcare team. By staying informed and proactive, you can navigate the challenges of pregnancy and work towards a healthy outcome for you and your baby. Remember, every pregnancy is unique, but luckily, your healthcare team and the community at PatientsLikeMe are there to support you! Creating an account is free – join today.