Diabetes-Pregnancy complications

Women with diabetes are generally followed more closely in pregnancy because of the potential for certain complications. When glucose levels are not in good control, there is also an increased risk for miscarriage and stillbirth. There is also a higher chance of pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure, swelling, and protein in the urine), pre-term delivery and excess
amniotic fluid around the baby (polyhydramnios). Finally, mothers with diabetes are more likely to have large babies, some weighing over 10 pounds. When this occurs, the doctor may advise the woman to deliver the baby by cesarean section rather than by vaginal delivery in order to reduce the risk of injuries to the mother and baby. Chances for these complications are lower when women have good glycemic control.

Kinds of tests during pregnancy for women with diabetes-

There are several tests that can be done during a pregnancy to evaluate how the baby is growing and developing. An ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create a picture of the baby, can be used to look at different structures of the baby and to make sure the baby is growing at a normal rate. A fetal echo cardiogram can be used to evaluate whether the baby’s heart is developing properly. Non-stress tests can be used to monitor the baby’s heart rate. A test of maternal blood (called the AFP test or triple screen) measures certain proteins the baby makes that cross into the mother’s blood. The levels of these proteins can give information on a baby’s chances to have certain birth defects such as spina bifida.