Pregestational Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition where the body cannot produce enough insulin hormones that regulate blood glucose. Diabetes is of two types Type 1 and Type 2. In Type 1 diabetes your pancreas fails to make enough insulin and in Type 2 diabetes the body cells fail to respond normally to insulin. Pregestational diabetes is a condition whereby a woman with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes conceives.

What is pregestational diabetes?

Gestational and pregestational diabetes are conditions that pose serious threats to maternal and foetal health. Though only a small percentage of pregnancies represent pregestational diabetes, the rate is increasing.

Cases of pregestational diabetes are increasing as diabetes among women of reproductive age is becoming more frequent. Most cases of diabetes in women of reproductive age are Type 2 diabetes. Unhealthy eating habits, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle are the common reasons for rising cases of Type 2 diabetes in young women.

How is the severity of the condition diagnosed?

Pregestational diabetes is classed into different categories to measure its severity and possible impact on maternal and foetal health. The age and period for which you had diabetes impact its possible effects. Doctors will check if your diabetes is which other complications like heart disease, kidney disease, and eye disease. Doctors will also check if you have two or more conditions together and if you ever had a kidney transplant.

Diabetes in the long run is known to affect cardiovascular, renal and retinal health.

Complications to baby

A high blood glucose level at any stage of pregnancy is a risk factor for the mother as well as the child. This is especially critical during the first trimester of pregnancy. Pregestational diabetes increases the risk of birth defects. High blood sugar can also be a reason for miscarriage.

Pregestational or gestational diabetes increases the chance of premature birth and leads to high birth weight. The baby might be born with low blood glucose or hypoglycemia, jaundice, and respiratory distress. The foetus is also at considerable risk of developing heart, blood vessels, brain, spine, kidneys, and digestive tract defects In some cases, high maternal blood sugar can also lead to stillbirth.

These conditions sound scary but are easily preventable with timely consultation with the doctor, medicine, and lifestyle changes.

Complications for the mother

Just because you have diabetes does not mean you cannot carry or give birth. Most women with pregestational diabetes give birth to healthy babies. You just need to be aware of your situation and seek timely medical help.

The many complications that an expecting mother with diabetes may face are urinary tract and vaginal infections. Along with pregestational diabetes, the mother may also develop high blood pressure or preeclampsia. This entire situation can cause complications in delivery and lead to cesarean delivery.

Pregnancy automatically causes a rise in blood sugar, in prediabetics the condition can worsen and lead to other health complications. However, those with pregestational diabetes can plan for healthy pregnancies with multi-disciplinary care from gynaecologists dietitians and endocrinologists.

If you are diabetic and hoping for pregnancy experts at Apollo Cradle, Koramangala Centre can provide you with the best medical care.

Who is at risk for pre-gestational diabetes?

Since incidents of pregestational diabetes are on the rise, you need to know if you are in the risk group. A sedentary lifestyle coupled with unhealthy eating habits is at the root of most of the cases of pregestational diabetes. Sometimes hereditary factors and race also affect the appearance of Type 2 pregestational diabetes.

The good news is that it is easily preventable with proper lifestyle changes and adopting good nutritional habits. Make exercise and physical activity a part of your daily routine. Include lots of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains in your meal. Keep stress at bay and get an adequate amount of sleep.

Conclusion

Checking with your gynaecologist and endocrinologist before planning a pregnancy is always a good idea, diabetic or not. You should tell your doctor if any other ailment is bothering you. Your doctor must also know about any kind of medication that you are taking. Take all tests, go for regular check-ups, and do not miss the prescribed prenatal vitamins that your doctor prescribed. Visit your doctor immediately if you feel any unusual symptoms.

These little practices will ensure that you deliver a healthy baby and retain your health as well.

Request an appointment at Apollo Cradle, Bengaluru - Koramangala. Call 1860-500-4424 to book an appointment.