Insulin injections for diabetes

Animal, human or synthetic insulin may be used for glucose control during pregnancy. Several studies have shown that using insulin during pregnancy is not associated with an increased risk for birth defects. It is thought that the potential benefits of using insulin to regulate glucose outweigh the risks of insulin use, since better glucose control can reduce the risks of birth defects associated with poorly controlled diabetes.

Since insulin is thought to control glucose levels better than most oral medications, your physician may want you to switch to insulin injections. There have been studies comparing birth defect rates of babies from women who control their diabetes with insulin injections with those who take oral medications to lower glucose in their blood. In general, taking oral medications does not increase the risk that a baby will be born with birth defects. It is important to recognize that there may be more specific information available for different medications. Consult with your physician regarding which medication may be appropriate for you. For more information about the oral medication metformin during pregnancy.