Pregnancy and Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition in which the body cannot change sugars and starches (carbohydrates) into energy. This happens when the body cannot make enough insulin or cannot use the insulin it makes. As a result, extra sugar in the blood can lead to damage in the blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, heart, and nerves.

If you are a woman with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, you can have a healthy baby, but you will need to take extra care before and during your pregnancy.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that may occur when a woman is pregnant. This type of diabetes is caused by a change in the way a woman's body responds to the hormone insulin during her pregnancy. This change results in elevated levels of blood sugar, also known as blood glucose.

Gestational diabetes affects an estimated 9% of women during pregnancy.

It is important to diagnose and treat gestational diabetes to avoid health complications for you and your baby.

Resources for Health

• Physical activity is a major component of a healthy lifestyle. Physical activity includes anything that keeps you moving such as walking, dancing, skipping, jumping, swimming, bicycling, or doing housework or yard work.
• Healthy eating and good nutrition is important throughout your life, but especially during pregnancy. Your health care provider can help you develop a personalized meal plan that will guide you toward the best food choices and easy meal ideas that keep you healthy and strong.