Have you ever wondered how diabetes might affect the dream of becoming a parent? For many couples managing diabetes, the journey to parenthood can feel daunting. The condition can impact fertility in both men and women, making it harder to conceive naturally. However, with the rise of fertility treatments like IVF, diabetic couples have a promising new path to parenthood. We spoke to our expert Dr Prasanta Kumar Nayak, Clinical Head and Fertility Specialist Oasis Fertility, who explained how IVF is helping to make family dreams a reality for those managing diabetes.
According to the International Diabetes Federation, it is estimated that over 500 million people worldwide are currently living with diabetes, with the vast majority affected by type 2 diabetes.
How Diabetes Affects Fertility in Women and Men
"In women, diabetes can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to irregular menstrual cycles and ovulatory dysfunction. This condition increases the likelihood of complications like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and early menopause, which limit the time frame for conception," said Dr Nayak.
According to a 2021 study, women with type 2 diabetes, particularly those diagnosed before beginning their reproductive journey, were more likely to remain childless compared to women without diabetes and faced a greater risk of miscarriage and infertility.
For men, diabetes can reduce sperm quality, motility, and count, and it can also contribute to erectile dysfunction, making natural conception more challenging. The combined effect of these issues can significantly impact fertility in both partners.
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How IVF Overcomes Fertility Challenges for Diabetic Couples
“IVF provides a viable solution to these fertility challenges by bypassing some of the natural barriers to conception. This process involves a controlled environment for fertilisation, offering couples a greater chance of achieving pregnancy despite diabetes-related complications,” explained Dr Nayak.
Managing Blood Sugar for Improved Reproductive Outcomes
To improve reproductive outcomes, diabetic individuals are encouraged to manage their blood sugar through lifestyle changes. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and weight maintenance can help regulate menstrual cycles in women and support testosterone levels in men. Consistent blood sugar control also lowers the risk of miscarriage, congenital disorders, and birth complications, supporting a healthier pregnancy journey.
Pre-Conception Planning for Diabetic Women
Diabetic women who are planning to conceive are often advised to start taking a high dose of folic acid and to consult with healthcare providers 3-6 months before trying for a baby. This pre-conception planning allows for personalised blood sugar management and lifestyle adjustments, creating an optimal environment for conception.
Also Read: Addressing India's Diabetes Dilemma: Never Too Early To Test But May Be Too Late To Treat
Advanced IVF Technologies Benefiting Diabetic Patients
“Recent advancements in IVF technology, such as Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg, address male infertility challenges effectively. For women, customised ovarian stimulation protocols minimise hormonal risks, while Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) screens for genetic risks, offering diabetic couples added reassurance of a healthy pregnancy,” added Dr Nayak.
Enhanced Medical Monitoring During IVF Pregnancy
Additionally, IVF offers close medical supervision throughout the pregnancy. As diabetes increases pregnancy risks, including gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. The structured monitoring offered by IVF enables early detection and proactive management of complications, helping to ease the pregnancy journey and boost the chances of reaching full term.
Bottomline
Dr Nayak concluded, “For diabetic couples, pursuing IVF bridges the gap between their health challenges and their desire to start a family. With advanced reproductive techniques and proactive diabetes management, IVF supports the dream of parenthood and empowers couples to pursue their reproductive journeys with peace of mind confidently.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]