Type 1 Diabetes and Pregnancy: Trimester 1
The first trimester can be a particularly difficult period for pregnant women with diabetes as morning sickness, nausea and food cravings can make blood sugar hard to control at a time when tight regulation is crucial.
During the first trimester your baby’s vital organs are formed and their nervous system begins to develop. Their eyes, ears and nose are also becoming recognisable.
Here are some of the things to consider about type 1 diabetes and pregnancy during the first trimester: 
- Make sure you check your blood glucose levels regularly. Ideally while fasting, one hour after each meal, and before you go to bed.
- Now is the time to stop smoking and to eliminate alcohol from your diet, as well as eating plenty of fruit and vegetables. You should also be taking folic acid.
- Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing morning sickness that makes you vomit or if nausea is preventing you eating a balanced diet and controlling your blood sugar levels.
- Make sure you know how to test your blood or urine for keytones in the event of hyperglycaemia.
- Be sure to have a glucagon kit in the house and show your family and friends how to use it.
Type 1 diabetes and pregnancy are a tricky combination, but with tight blood sugar regulation, modern women have an excellent chance of having a healthy happy baby.
Check out Jody’s Story, a true and motivating account of a young lady with type 1 diabetes and find out how she coped with pregnancy, delivery and breast feeding.
If you are not yet pregnant but considering having a baby, read our post on what to do before you get pregnant.
Related Articles
- Diabetes Type 1 Pregnancy: Before Getting Pregnant - Pregnancy is a complex process for any woman, but for someone with diabetes type 1 pregnancy has its.....
- Risks for a Pregnant Diabetic - Luckily these days the risks for a pregnant diabetic aren’t as high as they used to be. Due to great.....
- Type 1 Diabetes and Pregnancy: Coping With Cravings - Many women see pregnancy as a time where they can relax their strict diets and eat as much as they w.....
- Gestational diabetes - Considering it’s one of the most common health issues associated with pregnancy, women generally hav.....
