Diabetes during pregnancy, whether type 1, type 2, or gestational diabetes, creates risks for both the mother and the baby. For this reason, planning pregnancies and acting to minimize risks before, after, and during pregnancy are vital for the health of mom and child.

What are the Risks Diabetes Presents During Pregnancy?

Diabetes during pregnancy, regardless of type, can have a negative impact on overall health – especially if it is uncontrolled. For women who have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, high blood glucose levels at conception place the baby at greater risks of birth defects, stillbirth, or pre-term birth. High sugar during the pregnancy increases the risks of cesarean delivery, overweight babies, and a greater risk that the child will develop type 2 diabetes in the future.

How Can Pregnant Mothers Reduce these Risks?

There are many things pregnant moms can do to reduce these risks to themselves and their babies. One of the most important of these is to get your blood sugar under control and keep it there. Things you can do to make that happen to include the following:

• Exercise for at least 30 minutes daily.
• Make healthy food choices.
• Work with your physician to come up with an effective treatment plan for your diabetes.

Doing these things prior to pregnancy works best and offers you and your baby the greatest odds of success.