Diabetes mellitus: impact on pregnancy.

Diabetes Mellitus as a predisposing condition in pregnancy places the mother and fetus at increased risk for complications. Nevertheless, a successful pregnancy with a healthy baby is a realistic goal for most diabetic women today. The emphasis is on maintaining good control of blood glucose levels before conception and during pregnancy to minimize the risks. This article explains the physiology of diabetes and pregnancy and the metabolic changes that occur. It outlines the plan of management during pregnancy and the postpartum period and presents a review of the major complications that could affect the infant of the diabetic mother. A multidisciplinary team approach is also stressed as a positive influence affecting the outcome of a diabetic pregnancy.