The art and science of maintenance of normoglycemia in pregnancies complicated by insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.
OBJECTIVE
To provide a "how-to" manual for achieving and maintaining normoglycemia in pregnant women with insulin-dependent diabetes.


METHODS
We describe a detailed program that has successfully maintained normoglycemia before, during, and after diabetes-complicated pregnancies. Insulin and glucose requirements throughout pregnancy, during labor, and in the postpartum period are outlined.


RESULTS
With preconception planning and careful dietary and blood glucose management during pregnancy, complications can be minimized and an optimal outcome of pregnancy can be achieved in women with diabetes.


CONCLUSIONS
Women with type I, insulin-dependent diabetes can now have the same chances as women without diabetes to have a healthy infant. The reduction of risks associated with pregnancies complicated by diabetes can be ensured if normoglycemia is achieved before and during the pregnancy.
Jovanovic-Peterson
L
L
Sansum Medical Research Foundation, Santa Barbara, California 93105, USA.
Peterson
C M
CM