Can diabetic patients get pregnant, and will it affect the fetus?

Patients with diabetes can become pregnant, but it must be done under close monitoring and scientific management; otherwise, it may have adverse effects on the fetus.

If a woman has diabetes before pregnancy or develops gestational diabetes during pregnancy, poor blood glucose control may increase the risk of fetal malformations in early pregnancy. In the second and third trimesters, it may lead to excessive fetal growth, resulting in macrosomia, which increases the likelihood of difficult labor and cesarean delivery. It may also cause intrauterine growth restriction, fetal distress, and even intrauterine fetal death. In addition, the risk of complications for the mother, such as preeclampsia, polyhydramnios, and infections, will also increase.

However, if patients with diabetes can maintain their blood glucose within the target range before conception, keeping glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) below 6.5%, and strictly follow medical advice during pregnancy—including appropriate use of insulin or pregnancy-safe antidiabetic medications, regular blood glucose monitoring, healthy dietary habits, and moderate exercise—they can significantly reduce these adverse effects and ensure the safety of both mother and baby. Therefore, women with diabetes should consult a physician before pregnancy to develop an appropriate plan and closely cooperate with medical treatment during pregnancy to achieve a safe pregnancy outcome.