What are the target blood glucose levels for pregnant women with diabetes?

Univ. of Nev. School of Medicine, Family Medicine

Even if you have kept your blood sugar in good control before you get pregnant, it can be harder to keep control during pregnancy. But it's important to do your best! The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) says you should try to keep your blood sugar above 70 mg/dL and below these levels:

Before meals: 95 mg/dL or lower
1 hour after eating: 130 mg/dL or lower
2 hours after eating: 120 mg/dL or lower

American Diabetes Association

Typical blood glucose levels for pregnant women with diabetes are: Fasting 60-99 mg/dl, after meals 100-129 mg/dl.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus (MEL-ih-tus), often referred to as diabetes, is characterized by high blood glucose (sugar) levels that result from the body’s inability to produce enough insulin and/or effectively utilize the insulin. Diabetes is a serious, life-long condition and the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Diabetes is a disorder of metabolism (the body's way of digesting food and converting it into energy). There are three forms of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that accounts for five- to 10-percent of all diagnosed cases of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes may account for 90- to 95-percent of all diagnosed cases. The third type of diabetes occurs in pregnancy and is referred to as gestational diabetes. Left untreated, gestational diabetes can cause health issues for pregnant women and their babies. People with diabetes can take preventive steps to control this disease and decrease the risk of further complications.

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