ABSTRACT
Over the last 50 years, the outlook for women with insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) contemplating pregnancy has improved considerably. Perinatal mortality of babies of diabetic mothers has dropped significantly (Figure 12.1)1, and the majority of pregnant diabetic women now give birth to healthy babies. A successful outcome is, however, achieved only through excellent glycaemic control preconception, careful control of diabetes during pregnancy and close obstetric supervision. Diabetic pregnancies are high-risk events in obstetric terms, and hospital supervision is essential for all pregnant
diabetic women. The primary health care team (PHCT) also needs to be involved, as during emergencies (e.g. severe hypoglycaemic attacks) the family practitioner will be called upon, and after the birth, the mother and baby need support. The patient herself must undertake the major role of monitoring her glycaemic control fastidiously.
