Planning for sex, marriage, contraception, and pregnancy
Graber, A.L.; Christman, B.; Boehm, F.H.
Diabetes Care 1(3): 202-203
1978
ISSN/ISBN: 0149-5992 PMID: 729443 DOI: 10.2337/diacare.1.3.202Document Number: 438789
Authors Graber, Christman and Boehm contend careful planning for marriage, contraceptive use and pregnancy is warranted when a chronic health problem such as diabetes is evident. Prospective mates should be fully aware of the problems and management of diabetes. Diabetic women who wish to delay pregnancy should consider using an effective contraceptive. It is suggested that the lowest dosage of oral contraceptive pill be used with full understanding of adverse side effects and agreement to discontinue their use if complications arise. IUDs can also be effectively used by diabetics. Sterilization should be considered if the woman has a 20 year history of diabetes, is older than 35 years or has diabetic vascular complications. Sterilization for male diabetic or mates of diabetic women is another option. Planning in regard to pregnancy should begin in the middle teens if a woman is diabetic. Pregnancy should be delayed until the following criteria are met: 1) Both partners should fully understand diabetes and its management; 2) Diabetes should be under control prior to pregnancy since it is likely to be aggravated by pregnancy; 3) Women should reach ideal body weight prior to pregnancy; 4) Pregnancy should be delayed 1 year after diagnosis of diabetes; 5) There should be an acceptance of additional difficulties associated with pregnancy; 6) Understanding the effects of diabetes on infants is crucial; and 7) Spouses should accept the possibility of greater health problems with diabetic mates when planning a family.