Managing Diabetes During Pregnancy
Edited by Guy Slowik MD FRCS. Last updated on June 28th 2011
The goal in treating diabetes is to keep blood sugar levels as normal as possible. That usually involves:
- Daily blood glucose monitoring
- Taking insulin
- Following a special diet
- Following an exercise program
It's normal to feel stressed during pregnancy. Diabetes creates additional stresses. You have to see your doctor more often than women without diabetes, follow a special diet, and monitor your blood sugar several times per day. Here are some strategies for coping.
- Listen to your body.
- Learn to ask for help.
- Enlist the support of family, friends, or other women facing the same concerns.
- Make time for regular exercise.
- Keep your sense of humor.
- Take good care of yourself.
- Learn a relaxation or meditation technique.
- Be positive.
During your pregnancy, contact your doctor if you have:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Sharp back pain
- Burning or painful urination
- An infection
- Dizziness or fainting
- Rapid weight gain
- Swelling in the hands, face or feet
- Severe nausea with high blood sugar
- A decrease in your baby's movement
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Nice To Know: Your prenatal team Keeping diabetes under control takes teamwork. Besides your obstetrician, here are some other specialists who can help:
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