The Path to Parenthood: How I Prepared for Pregnancy with Diabetes

Nearly a decade ago, I was just beginning to imagine the possibility of starting a family. Today, with my incredible 7- and 8-year-olds filling our days with laughter and energy, that season of life feels far away.

I still remember that chapter clearly. It was filled with hopeful anticipation, nervous excitement, and a deep commitment to caring for my health—especially my diabetes—as I prepared for what was ahead.

Why preconception care matters for pregnancy with diabetes

The moment I started thinking about having a baby, the part of my brain that’s always aware of my diabetes spoke up. I knew diabetes would make this journey a little different. Being proactive before a positive pregnancy test felt essential for protecting both myself and my future baby.

Preconception care became my first priority. I wanted to plan ahead, understand possible challenges, and gather as much support and information as I could about pregnancy with diabetes. Preparing early gave me a sense of control and confidence during a time that can feel overwhelming.

Because I worked in healthcare, I was familiar with the research. I knew that managing blood glucose levels before conception could make a meaningful difference. Complications like birth defects, preeclampsia, and having a large baby were real concerns. Still, I also knew that optimizing blood glucose levels before pregnancy could significantly reduce these risks.

One of the most valuable outcomes of focusing on preconception care was finding the right healthcare team. Since I would be working closely with these professionals throughout pregnancy, trust and shared understanding were essential.

First steps in planning a pregnancy with diabetes

When I look back, my first steps focused on overall well-being. I followed a balanced eating plan that included vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains. These choices helped support my energy levels and blood glucose goals.

Movement also became a regular part of my routine. Long neighborhood walks and boxing classes made staying active feel enjoyable instead of stressful. Sleep mattered, too. Establishing a consistent schedule helped support both my physical health and emotional well-being. These habits may seem simple, but they created a strong foundation.

Managing my diabetes remained central to my preparation. Staying in range as much as possible was a key goal. I paid closer attention to carb counting and insulin dosing. I also adjusted the alert settings on my continuous glucose monitor (CGM) so I could respond quickly to out-of-range levels. Watching my time in range improve was motivating and reassuring.

Using diabetes technology when planning pregnancy

Diabetes technology played an important role during this time. I had gone on and off insulin pump therapy since my diagnosis at age 9. When I started preparing for pregnancy, I decided to return to using an insulin pump alongside my CGM.

Closed-loop systems were not available then. Even so, having a pump that allowed me to pause insulin delivery when my blood glucose was dropping made a big difference. My CGM provided real-time trend data, which helped me make proactive adjustments and better understand how my body responded.

Building a healthcare team for pregnancy with diabetes

Finding the right healthcare team took time and effort. I knew I needed specialists who understood both diabetes and high-risk pregnancies. I researched online, asked for recommendations, and connected with others through social media. I also scheduled initial visits to see who felt like the right fit.

Ultimately, I chose a Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) group that truly supported me. One major advantage was having a dedicated diabetes educator within the practice. This support became especially important because my endocrinologist at the time wasn’t comfortable managing diabetes during pregnancy.

Even though I was a dietitian and diabetes educator myself, pregnancy with diabetes was new territory. Having a diabetes educator who worked closely with my MFM team was invaluable. She helped adjust insulin doses throughout pregnancy and offered consistent guidance. Knowing my care team communicated well gave me peace of mind.

We also met with a genetic counselor. She explained complex information in a clear, approachable way and helped us understand genetic risks based on family history and ethnicity.

Why support matters during pregnancy with diabetes

A strong support network can make a meaningful difference when planning pregnancy with diabetes. I joined a Facebook group for moms with diabetes, which helped me feel less alone. I also had a close friend with diabetes who was trying to conceive around the same time. Sharing experiences with someone who truly understood was comforting.

Looking back, I wish I had known about peer support groups like those offered by DiabetesSisters. These communities provide connection, encouragement, and practical insights from women navigating similar paths.

I’m grateful for the time and effort I invested during that preconception period. It wasn’t always easy, and there were moments of anxiety. Still, prioritizing my health and building a strong care team gave me confidence as I stepped into parenthood. If you’re living with diabetes, know this: a healthy pregnancy and a thriving baby are absolutely within reach.

Planning pregnancy or navigating motherhood with diabetes?

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About the Author: Lindsay Cohen RDN, LDN, CDCES, NBC-HWC, is a St. Louis-based Registered Dietitian, CDCES, and the friendly face behind Mama-Betes. Living with type 1 diabetes since she was 9 gives her a true understanding of what it’s like. Lindsay’s mission is to take the stress out of nutrition and wellness, making it simple, clear, and even fun for her readers and clients. When she’s not sharing her expertise, you can find her spending time with family and friends, playing taxi driver for her two kids, trying the latest workout craze, getting lost in a book, traveling, or exploring new restaurants around town.