Many people with diabetes worry that it will stop them having a family. With good blood sugar control and planning, most people with diabetes can conceive and have healthy pregnancies. When fertility treatment is needed, IVF is an option.
How can diabetes affect fertility?
In women
- Poorly controlled blood sugar can affect ovulation and periods
- Type 2 diabetes is often linked with PCOS and excess weight, which can affect fertility
- High blood sugar around conception increases the risk of miscarriage and birth defects
In men
- Diabetes can affect erections and ejaculation
- It may affect sperm quality
Read more about signs of male infertility.
Preparing for pregnancy with diabetes
- Plan ahead: see your diabetes doctor before trying to conceive
- Aim for good blood sugar control: your doctor will advise a safe HbA1c target before pregnancy
- Review medicines: some diabetes and blood pressure medicines need changing before pregnancy
- Folic acid: a higher dose is often recommended for women with diabetes, starting before conception
- Check for complications: eyes, kidneys and blood pressure
How IVF helps people with diabetes
If you have been trying without success, a fertility assessment can find the cause. Depending on the results, treatment may include ovulation induction, IUI or IVF. During IVF, blood sugar is monitored closely, and the diabetes and fertility teams work together. Diabetes itself is not a reason to avoid IVF when blood sugar is well controlled.
Pregnancy with diabetes
Pregnancy with diabetes needs extra care, because the risks of pre-eclampsia, a large baby and other complications are higher. Regular checks and specialist high-risk pregnancy care help to keep mother and baby healthy.
What about gestational diabetes?
Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy and usually goes away after birth. It is different from diabetes before pregnancy, but it also needs careful monitoring.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have IVF if I have diabetes?
Yes. IVF is possible when diabetes is well controlled. Your diabetes and fertility teams will plan treatment together.
Does diabetes cause infertility?
Diabetes does not always cause infertility, but poorly controlled blood sugar can affect ovulation in women and erections and sperm in men.
What should my blood sugar be before pregnancy?
Your diabetes doctor will advise a safe HbA1c target for you before you try to conceive.
If you have questions about your own situation, you can meet our doctors at our Basavanagudi, Koramangala and Ballari centres, or contact us to book an appointment.
This article is for general information and does not replace medical advice. Treatment decisions should be made with a qualified doctor who knows your history.