Why is pre-pregnancy blood sugar control important?
On the occasion of World Diabetes Day 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced for the first time a global guideline on diabetes management during pregnancy, saying that each year, more than 21 million women (equivalent to 1 in 6 pregnant women) are affected. Unstable blood sugar can have serious consequences for both mother and fetus, increasing the risk of preeclampsia, stillbirth and birth defects and injuries.
According to Dr. Ila Gupta, Chairman & Chief IVF Consultant at Pristyn Care Ferticity Delhi (India), modern lifestyle makes diabetes increasingly popular in young people, but with appropriate medical guidance and monitoring, many couples can still have a healthy pregnancy.
Things to note before trying to conceive
Before becoming pregnant, couples with diabetes should see an endocrinologist or assistant physician for a comprehensive health assessment.
Dr. Gupta said that HbA1c testing helps control blood sugar in the last 3 months; high blood sugar can affect ovulation in women and reduce sperm quality in men. In addition, checking blood pressure, thyroid and kidney function is also very necessary because diabetes often affects these organs.
Keep blood sugar levels stable during pregnancy
Pregnancy increases insulin resistance, making blood sugar control more difficult. Couples should maintain a balanced, rich diet:
Whole grains
Green vegetables
Beans, nuts
Healthy fats
Dr. Gupta recommends: Eating many small meals a day is more effective than eating few but many meals. Controlling blood sugar well from the beginning of pregnancy helps reduce the risk of miscarriage, high blood pressure and premature birth".
Monitor and provide regular medical support
Pregnant women with diabetes need to:
Regular blood sugar check
Urin testing
Eye examination and fetal ultrasound according to schedule
Some cases need to adjust insulin doses according to the development of the fetus. For women who are receiving IVF infertility treatment, stable blood sugar helps improve egg and embryo quality, thereby increasing the success rate, Dr. Gupta emphasized.
Issues related to childbirth
Uncontrolled high blood sugar can lead to:
The baby is too big
Premature birth
Increased likelihood of having to have a cesarean section
Good blood sugar control will significantly reduce these risks. In addition, newborns also need to be monitored for postpartum blood sugar to ensure a safe recovery process.
Helping daily habits
Small lifestyle changes can bring great benefits:
Prioritize self-cooked, nutrient-dense meals
Gentle exercise such as walking, yoga or stretching
Get enough sleep and on time
Manage stress and anxiety
Diabetes should not be a barrier for parents, says Dr. Gupta. With correct awareness, clear planning and regular medical monitoring, couples can completely welcome a healthy baby.
The information in the article is for reference only, not a replacement for medical diagnosis or treatment. You should talk directly to your doctor for accurate advice that is suitable for your health condition.
