Most women with type 1 diabetes have a healthy pregnancy. But there is a risk of complications. It’s important to plan for pregnancy and make sure your diabetes is under control before you start trying for a baby. It’s safest if your glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1C) level is below 48mmol/mol before you get pregnant. Keeping your diabetes well controlled during your pregnancy will help to keep the risks as low as possible.
If your diabetes isn’t well controlled, it may put you at an increased risk of serious complications such as high blood pressure (pre-eclampsia), miscarriage and stillbirth. There’s also a greater risk of your baby being born with complications such as spinal bifida. And you’re more likely to have a larger baby if you have diabetes, so you might need to have a caesarean.
During pregnancy, you’re also at greater risk of diabetes complications such as eye and kidney problems. You’ll be offered extra tests and regular monitoring during your pregnancy to ensure your diabetes is under control and to reduce the risk of complications. Ask your diabetic specialist nurse or midwife for information about this. Your diabetes nurse can also help you to plan a healthy pregnancy.