Putting It All Together

Here is a summary of the important facts and information related to diabetes in pregnancy.

• Eight million women have diabetes, and one in 20 pregnant women develops gestational diabetes.

• Diabetes in pregnancy is a cause for concern. But it doesn't necessarily mean that pregnancy will be difficult, or that the chances of having a normal healthy baby are any less.

• By testing your blood glucose levels, following your food plan, and exercising regularly, you and your health care team can work together to lower your high blood sugar levels.

• Up to 50 percent of women with gestational diabetes will develop permanent type 2 diabetes within 10 to 15 years.

• Risk factors for gestational diabetes include:
  • Family history

  • Previous diagnosis of gestational diabetes

  • Previous stillbirth or live birth of a baby over nine lbs.

  • Obesity

  • Age over 25

  • African American, Hispanic, or Native American

• Women with pre-existing diabetes should be tested for various long-term complications, such as vision impairment, heart disease or reduced kidney function, before becoming pregnant. Pregnancy can make them worse.

• Risks to both mother and baby are significantly reduced when blood glucose is controlled throughout the pregnancy.

• A mother's diabetes will not cause her baby to be diabetic, but the child is at an increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes later in life.