In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) has made it easier for couples who struggle with infertility to have babies. However, for women with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, IVF can be a difficult decision. Diabetes can impact a woman’s fertility and pregnancy which can create more complications in the IVF journey.
Impact Of Diabetes On Fertility
Diabetes can affect a woman’s fertility in various ways. Diabetic women are prone to experiencing irregular menstrual cycles which can make it difficult to conceive naturally. As per a study published by ScienceDirect, in women with type 1 diabetes, fertility is compromised even before the diagnosis of diabetes.
Another study states that diabetes can lead to hormonal imbalances that interfere with ovulation and can complicate the conception process. Furthermore, diabetes also increases the risk of miscarriages. Given all these complications, can diabetic women undergo IVF?
To understand whether women with diabetes can undergo IVF, OnlyMyHealth interacted with Dr Nandita Palshetkar, Obstetrician, Gynaecologist, Director of Bloom IVF India, President of IVF Society of India (ISAR).
When asked if diabetic women can go for IVF, Dr Palshetkar said, “Diabetic women can undergo IVF but they should consult with their diabetician. Their diabetic control needs to be very good, preferably a few weeks before their procedure. Only medications which are safe during pregnancy should be given to control the sugars. If medications not safe for pregnancy are given, they need to be stopped.”
Also read: Diabetes: Expert Explains Impact On Reproductive Health And Pregnancy
Risks And Complications
Risks and complications for diabetic women undergoing IVF may include:
- Poorly controlled diabetes can also affect egg quality and increase the risk of miscarriage.
- Poorly controlled diabetes can lead to an increase in birth defects in the unborn baby.
- Higher chances of pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, and preterm birth.
Success Rate
Talking about success rates of IVF for diabetic women, Dr Palshetkar said, “Success rates of IVF for diabetic women can vary depending on factors such as age, overall health, and the severity of diabetes.”
Adding further, she said, “Generally, live birth rates may be slightly lower compared to non-diabetic women due to potential complications. So, if diabetes is well controlled, they are equivalent to other patients without diabetes. Success rates vary between 30-50% depending on many factors - age, cause and diabetes control.”
Precautionary Measures
Precautions to be taken for a diabetic woman before undergoing IVF include
- Optimising blood sugar control through medication (safe for pregnancy), diet, and lifestyle modifications.
- Ensure their overall health is well-managed, including addressing any other medical conditions they may have.
- Regular monitoring by doctors specialised in both fertility and diabetes management respectively is crucial throughout the IVF process.
- Good and complete nutrition, exercise routine and good mental health are the other three pillars to achieve results.
Conclusion
While IVF offers hope for diabetic women struggling with infertility, it is essential to approach the process with caution and careful planning. By working closely with healthcare providers, managing diabetes effectively, and addressing any potential risks, diabetic women can increase their chances of a successful IVF outcome.