Managing Diabetes During Pregnancy

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