Planning For Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes
Planning for pregnancy is always beneficial, but it is particularly crucial for people with type 1 diabetes. If you have diabetes, you should discuss pregnancy with your doctor before trying to conceive. A safe pregnancy and healthy baby are possible, but there are some risks. Planning can help to reduce the risks to you and your baby.
Prevent pregnancy until you are ready.
Unplanned pregnancies are often a challenge, but if you have type 1 diabetes, not knowing that you are expecting can lead to health problems for you and your baby. Your baby’s major organs begin forming in the first few weeks of gestation, making balanced blood glucose levels important. Pregnancy can create fluctuations in your blood glucose levels, so it is ideal to know you are pregnant as soon as possible after conceiving. Talk to your doctor about what contraceptive methods would be best for you as some birth control methods can affect your blood glucose levels.
Assemble a pregnancy and birth team.
Build a team of health professionals that you trust to care for you during your pregnancy. Depending on the resources available in your area, you may want to seek out the support of:
An endocrinologist
Your general practitioner or family doctor
An obstetrician
A midwife
A birth doula or postpartum doula
A dietician or diabetes educator
You may also need referrals to other professionals such as:
An ophthalmologist
A kidney or renal specialist
A psychologist
A social worker
When choosing the care professionals on your team, be sure to select people whose philosophies about pregnancy and birth are compatible with yours. You should feel safe, supported, and comfortable being open and honest with your team.
Planning is essential for a healthy diabetic pregnancy.
How far ahead you need to plan for pregnancy depends on how well controlled your diabetes is and how difficult it is to get appointments with your care providers. It may be necessary for people with type 1 diabetes to plan 3-6 months before trying to conceive. You will need time to go over your current diabetes management plan, assess your overall wellness, and optimize your blood glucose levels.
You may want to review your diabetes management plan before trying to conceive.
Before you begin trying to get pregnant, it is a good idea to discuss your diabetes management plan. Your doctor or endocrinologist may recommend changes to how you manage your diabetes treatment that may include:
Using different types of insulin
Switching to an insulin pump
Changes to when and how you check your glucose levels
You should also have your doctor check for diabetes-related complications. They should run tests to confirm the health of your eyes, kidneys, and feet. Any diabetes complications should be managed prior to conception.
Optimize your nutrition and lifestyle to prepare for pregnancy.
As a parent-to-be with type 1 diabetes, your body is already under pressure. You can get ready for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby by taking prenatal vitamins or folate and iodine supplements. Some doctors recommend that people with diabetes take more folate than other pregnant people. Talk to your doctor about which vitamin and mineral supplements would be ideal for you.
Your diet is an essential part of keeping your body healthy. Your child’s growth and development throughout their life are impacted by your dietary choices during pregnancy. Focus on whole foods and choose fruits and vegetables in a variety of colors. Eat the rainbow, they say! Avoid processed foods and foods high in sugar. Be sure to adjust (or have your care provider make changes to) your insulin dosages with any dietary changes.
Get exercise every day! Pregnant people benefit from getting and staying active. Getting regular exercise lowers your risk for some pregnancy complications and may improve your birth experience. Talk to your doctor for guidance when increasing your physical activity levels, especially if you are experiencing episodes of low blood sugar.
While planning ahead for pregnancy is always the ideal, it isn’t always possible. If you discover you are pregnant unexpectedly, make an urgent appointment with your doctor, endocrinologist, and other members of your diabetes care team. Discuss any concerns and learn your options for moving forward. Getting support as early as possible will ensure your pregnancy and birth go smoothly.
