Mumbai docs reveal why women with diabetes shouldn't be afraid of pregnancy 

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Diabetes can make pregnancy more complex, but it does not mean that a woman cannot have a healthy pregnancy or become a mother. But with proper blood sugar control, regular medical monitoring, appropriate nutrition, medication and timely antenatal care, many women with diabetes can successfully go through pregnancy and deliver healthy babies. 

However, concerns about possible complications such as high blood pressure, preeclampsia, premature birth, excessive fetal growth, and health problems in the baby may make some women with diabetes avoid marriage or delay pregnancy, fearing that the condition could affect their own health or their baby’s well-being. A large number of women are now living with diabetes, but they are also stressed about conceiving. 

Getting pregnant while living with diabetes

Dr Priyanka Sonawane, gynecologist, Zynova Shalby Hospital in Ghatkopar Mumbai experts, “In a month, 5 out of every 20 women aged 25-35 years who come to me with diabetes are also worried about whether they will be able to conceive, have a safe pregnancy, or whether diabetes could affect their marriage and future family life. Many of these women are otherwise young and capable of planning a pregnancy, but fear of complications often makes them anxious about motherhood. Women may face complications such as high blood pressure during pregnancy, excessive fetal growth, and premature delivery. For the baby, uncontrolled maternal blood sugar can increase the risk of excessive growth, while after birth, the baby may develop low blood sugar, breathing difficulties, or jaundice. Diabetes should not be seen as a reason for a woman to give up on marriage or motherhood. But, now, women shouldn’t worry, as it is possible to manage diabetes and improve the quality of life. What is important is planning the pregnancy and entering it with good blood sugar control and appropriate medical guidance. With proper pre-pregnancy planning, blood sugar control and regular medical care, women can take informed decisions about marriage, conception, and motherhood rather than allowing fear to make these decisions for them.”

Dr Sonawane added, “Women with diabetes need regular monitoring of blood glucose, blood pressure, weight, and the baby’s growth throughout pregnancy. In some cases, medicines may need to be adjusted before conception or during pregnancy. So, women with diabetes who are planning a pregnancy should consult their doctor before conception rather than stopping or changing medicines on their own. Pre-pregnancy assessment can help identify blood sugar, blood pressure, thyroid, or other health concerns through tests such as HbA1c, thyroid function tests, and blood pressure checks, allowing any concerns to be addressed before pregnancy. Women should follow an individualized meal plan that includes fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. Avoid junk, processed, and sugary foods; exercise daily; attend regular antenatal appointments; and monitor their blood sugar as recommended. Pregnancy does require extra attention in women with diabetes, but extra attention does not mean that motherhood is unsafe or impossible. The earlier a woman seeks medical advice, the more opportunities there are to optimize her health before conception and throughout pregnancy. Women should not make major life decisions based only on fear or stories they may have heard from others. Every pregnancy is different, and individual medical assessment is essential. With regular follow-up, good glucose control, and appropriate precautions, diabetes can be managed while a woman moves towards a healthy pregnancy and motherhood.”

Dr Aditi Singhi, who is the gynecologist at Apollo Spectra Hospital in the city added, “Diabetes should not stop women from planning pregnancy, but it requires careful preparation and regular medical supervision. According to the International Diabetes Federation, approximately 1 in 6 live births are affected by some form of hyperglycemia in pregnancy, with the majority of cases being gestational diabetes. Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can increase the risk of complications for both the mother and baby. Women with diabetes should ideally consult their gynaecologist and diabetologist before conception to optimize blood sugar levels, review medications, and assess overall health. With regular check-ups, a balanced diet, appropriate physical activity, and timely monitoring, most women can have a healthy pregnancy.”