The diabetic pregnant woman can do much to improve her chances of having a healthy baby. It is extremely important to do this before conception, as most serious birth defects associated with diabetes occur in the earliest weeks of pregnancy, often before the woman realizes she is pregnant. These medications should be discontinued prior to conception, as they are contraindicated in pregnancy. Some women with Type 2 diabetes may require insulin to control their blood sugar levels while attempting to conceive and during the pregnancy. Its development usually occurs during the second half of the pregnancy when hormones interfere with the body s ability to utilize insulin.
Some women are at increased risk of gestational diabetes.
The American Diabetes Association recommends screening for gestational diabetes of all pregnant women. Once gestational diabetes is diagnosed, most women may control their blood sugar by diet, although a small portion may require insulin. After delivery blood sugar levels usually return to normal. It should be kept in mind that women with gestational diabetes are at an increased risk of the recurrence of gestational diabetes with future pregnancies, or the development of overt diabetes later in life. All pregnant diabetic women should follow a special diet such as recommended by the American Diabetes Association.