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Adult Diabetes: Women's Health

Women living with diabetes need to take extra-special care as women may experience particular challenges related to stress, sex and pregnancy.

Women with diabetes are also at risk of developing premature menopause and the consequent increased risks of cardiovascular disease. Your risk is also increased for many serious diabetes-related complications including blindness, nerve damage and kidney damage.

Changing hormone levels can lead to blood sugar levels that are less stable. With variations in both hormones and blood sugar, you might experience mood swings, fatigue and even decreased sexual function. Birth control pills can also affect your blood glucose levels. You should include your gynecologist as part of your diabetes health care team.

Some women even experience signs of depression that might result from diabetes.

Pregnancy

Your insulin needs may change when you're pregnant. Your doctor may check your blood glucose more often and may want you to take more insulin. You will probably take insulin instead of pills when you're pregnant.

If you are pregnant:

• Get your blood glucose as close to the normal range as possible
• See a doctor who has experience in taking care of pregnant diabetics
• Have your eyes and kidneys checked
• Make sure you and your unborn baby have a healthy diet

If you're already pregnant, see your doctor as soon as possible. It's important to bring your blood glucose close to normal so that you'll stay healthy during your pregnancy.

Menopause

How the hormonal changes of menopause affect blood glucose may vary depending on the individual. You might mistake menopausal symptoms as symptoms of low glucose levels. Menopause can cause greater fluctuations in blood glucose that can make sleep more difficult and contribute to mood changes, fatigue and hot flashes.