The condition where our body’s blood glucose levels are very high is called diabetes, which is one of the common diseases of today. Chronic disease such as diabetes does not allow our body to convert sugars and starches into energy, which usually happens with the help of insulin produced by the pancreas. These sugars are not able to break down and cellular uptake is diminished. Type 1 diabetes is when the body is unable to produce insulin or insufficient insulin production. Is low blood sugar type 1 diabetes? Partially yes and this can hamper patient’s fertility too. If you are type-1 diabetic and planning pregnancy, check what Dr. Reena Gupta, Fertility Consultant, Nova Southend Fertility & IVF, New Delhi has to say on T1D and Fertility link.
Does Type 1 Diabetes Affect Fertility In Males And Females?
Even though diabetes is a very common disease that is known by everyone, yet, we are not aware of how it really affects our body in the long term. There are some factors that are not commonly known about the effects of Diabetes. One way how the disease affects us is with regards to its effects on fertility in both men and women. This means that if one has diabetes, it reduces their chances of conceiving a baby.
In order to fight infertility issues with Diabetes, one needs to control their condition very well before planning to conceive a child. This can reduce the risk of infertility issues. Visiting a doctor or fertility expert for a review of the condition in terms of a general health check-up becomes important as well, at least 3-6 months prior to planning to have a baby.
Also Read: Sonam Kapoor Has Type 1 Diabetes, Know The Potential Complications
Can type 1 diabetes affect female fertility?
Specifically, in Type-1 diabetes, the pancreas produces insufficient insulin and prevents the body from using our blood sugar. Type 1 diabetes compromises female fertility, even before it is diagnosed as the associated hyperthyroidism with this condition further can reduce fertility.
By observing the blood glucose and thyroid functions in the females who are affected by the disease and are infertile, an early diagnosis of type 1 diabetes is possible with also tracing signs of the thyroid. The condition can overall be managed with regular insulin injections for our body.
How to resolve Type 1 diabetes fertility problems?
If you have type 1 diabetes and you wish to have a baby, it is essential to plan out and check your fertility well before to avoid further mishaps and stay healthy for both you and your baby. For women with the disease who want to conceive, preconception health is important because diabetes can cause problems in female fertility. Following are some things one can do to boost preconception health and increase the chances of being fertile and having a healthy baby:
Also Read: Type 1 Diabetes Signs And Symptoms In Children That Parents Should Never Ignore
- Talk with your fertility expert about family planning amidst diabetes
- You can evaluate options for treating your infertility through IVF treatments for type 1 diabetes
- The expert shall guide you through ways of establishing blood glucose control to normalise the disease
- Your diet and weight should be healthy and under control. Recommended physical activities should be followed. If you are overweight or obese, you should lose weight and bring it under control.
- Additional medicines that you are consuming like herbal products or any other prescribed by your doctor should be under check
- It is good to consume Vitamin B and Folic Acid every day during Diabetes
- Smoking and alcohol consumption should be stopped.
- You should have done a recent Pap test and screenings for any sexually transmitted infections including HIV.
- You should stay away from toxic substances and let your doctor know if you have had feelings of sadness.
In such a condition, it becomes mentally exhausting and stressful to deal with the condition alone. Here, the partner should support and encourage each other in every aspect of preparing for pregnancy. Male partners should also focus on improving their reproductive and overall health. Seek treatment from your fertility expert in case of any problems with infertility during such diseases.
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