Pre-Existing Diabetes
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Years ago women with diabetes were discouraged from becoming pregnant. It was believed that true diabetes is inconsistent with conception. (E. Albert Reece) The risks for both mother and baby were extremely high. Today with the advances made in insulin therapy, diabetes management technology and antepartum testing having a healthy baby is possible.
If a woman achieves an HbA1c of 6% or less prior to conception her risk of having a child with a birth defect is 2-3%. That is equivalent to woman who does not have diabetes. Achieving and maintaining your blood sugars within a normal target level both before and during your pregnancy is the key to success.
The Center for Diabetes In Pregnancy offers a specially designed management and education program for women with pre-existing diabetes. We offer care from preconception through postpartum. Our educational program covers all facets of diabetes management including an area of expertise in insulin pump therapy. The program also offers a monthly support group for women living with diabetes.