Thinking about having a baby is a beautiful and exciting time. But if you’re living with diabetes, you may have a few extra things on your mind. The good news? With the right support and pre-conception care, you can absolutely have a healthy pregnancy and a thriving baby.
Let’s walk through what you need to know to feel confident and ready for this new chapter.
Why Pre-Conception Care Matters
If you have diabetes, the most important thing you can do before getting pregnant is to plan ahead. Managing your blood sugar before conception helps reduce the risk of complications like birth defects, preeclampsia, miscarriage, and large birth weight.
The earlier you begin this planning process, the better your chances of a smooth pregnancy. It also gives you time to build a health care team you trust — one that will support you every step of the way.
Meet Your Pregnancy Care Team
Your health care team will guide you throughout your pregnancy. Here are the key players:
👩⚕️ Endocrinologist
This doctor helps you reach your blood sugar goals and may adjust your medications or suggest tools like insulin pumps or continuous glucose monitors.
🤰 Obstetrician or Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) Specialist
You’ll want a doctor who specializes in high-risk pregnancies. They’ll monitor your health and your baby’s development closely.
🥗 Registered Dietitian
They’ll help you create a meal plan that supports both stable blood sugar and proper nutrition for pregnancy — including important nutrients like folic acid, calcium, and iron.
📚 Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES)
They’ll offer guidance on everything from glucose monitoring to stress management and help you understand how to adjust your routine as your pregnancy progresses.
Important Pre-Conception Tests
Before trying to conceive, your doctor will want to make sure everything’s on track. Expect the following tests and evaluations:
- Hemoglobin A1c test to check your average blood sugar over the past 3 months
- Kidney function tests
- Eye exam to screen for diabetic retinopathy
- Thyroid function test
- Heart health screening, depending on your history
Your doctor will also review all current medications and vaccinations to make sure they’re safe for pregnancy.
Lifestyle Tips for a Healthy Start
🍎 Nutrition
Focus on balanced meals with vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats.
🏃♀️ Exercise
Keep moving with activities like walking, swimming, or yoga. Exercise helps manage blood sugar and boosts your overall wellness.
😴 Sleep and Stress
Getting enough rest and finding ways to reduce stress—like meditation, hobbies, or talking with friends—can improve your blood sugar control.
Check Your Medications and Supplements
Some medications may not be safe during pregnancy. Review everything — even over-the-counter meds and vitamins — with your doctor.
Pro Tip: Start taking folic acid at least 1–3 months before trying to conceive. It helps prevent birth defects and supports early baby development.
Final Thoughts
Having diabetes doesn’t mean you can’t have a healthy pregnancy. In fact, with thoughtful planning, expert support, and healthy lifestyle changes, you’re already on the right path.
By focusing on pre-conception care now, you’re giving your future baby the best possible start — and giving yourself peace of mind.
Your journey toward motherhood is uniquely yours, and you’ve got this. 💙