Diabetes is becoming increasingly common during pregnancy. In countries such as the United Kingdom and the United States, about 5-9% of pregnant women are affected. In Trinidad and Tobago, the rate is thought to be even higher, affecting approximately 15–18% of pregnancies.
Some women have diabetes before becoming pregnant (Type 1 or Type 2), while others develop high blood sugar levels during pregnancy — a condition known as gestational diabetes.
Why Does It Matter?
If diabetes is not well controlled, it can affect both the mother and the baby. Mothers have a higher chance of developing infections and may experience problems with their kidneys, eyes, or blood pressure. Babies may grow larger than normal, making delivery more difficult, and are at increased risk of birth defects, complications during birth, and, in severe cases, stillbirth.
What Can Be Done?
Careful management of diabetes can greatly reduce these risks and help you have a healthy pregnancy.
Healthy eating and regular monitoring of blood sugar levels are the foundation of treatment. Some women may also need medication — such as metformin or insulin — to keep blood sugar within a safe range.
Depending on the type of diabetes, how well blood sugar levels are controlled, and whether any complications arise, delivery is usually recommended before your due date to ensure the safest outcome for both mother and baby.
With the right care and support, most women with diabetes go on to have successful pregnancies and healthy babies.