Pregnant Type 2 Diabetic Coping with Pregnancy?

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QUESTION: I want to say thank u to u all for trying to help we with type 2 diabetes, and a big thank u to rihana too.

Pls I will like to ask that how can a pregnant type 2 diabetes cope wit pregnancy and what other things should we avoid or do? Thank u.


ANSWER: Hi there,

Having a baby is very important step in the life of every woman. However, you have to know that this step is more difficult for people with diabetes in comparison to the other people.

I’m telling you this, because when you are pregnant and when you have diabetes at the same time, there is a need for many doctors looking after your condition.

Therefore, in purpose to be sure that everything is going to be ok with you and your future baby, try to find very experienced endocrinologist, obstetrician, pediatrician and dietitian.

All these people will help you to maintain your blood glucose level within the normal ranges and they will guide you through the whole pregnancy.

This is quite important, because the requirements of your body will get larger with the time. To put it differently, you will have to do different things every month, until the end of the pregnancy, with the single purpose to keep your blood glucose down.

At first, you have to avoid the usage of herbs, because not all of them are tested for safety during pregnancy. So, it would be better for you to stick to the diet and the exercises.

Regarding the diet,

you have to keep in mind that you don’t have to eat more than usual. The only thing, which you have to do is to increase your calorie intake with 300 calories almost every month. This meal plan, will ensure enough nutrients for your body and for you baby.

Besides this, smart decision will be to stick to the usage of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and fish. These products will provide your pregnant body with all the required nutrients.

In addition, if you gain weight, don’t try to lose some, especially when your blood glucose is within the reference ranges.

With regards to the exercises, you don’t have to stop doing some. With the exercises, you will keep your blood glucose normal and besides this, you will improve your circulation. A proper circulation will ensure your baby will have enough nutrients to grow normally.

Just for your information, I will tell you that probably your endocrinologist will put you on insulin treatment. This is important, because most of the oral anti-diabetic drugs are not tested for safety in pregnant women.

Besides this, the pregnancy leads to insulin resistance and the only solution of this problem is the insulin usage. Remember that the application of insulin, no matter its form, will not harm you and it will not harm your baby as well.

The pregnancy is very difficult period of the woman’s life, but with the needed efforts everything is going to be fine. You just have to listen to what your doctors are telling you and to be dedicated to the cause.

Hope it helped!

Dr.Alba