Diabetes diagnosed prior to the current pregnancy; it may be type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, or carbohydrate intolerance. These are characterized by the body's difficulty in adequately regulating blood glucose levels. Risk factors include obesity, family history of diabetes, and polycystic ovary syndrome.
Symptoms may include thirst, fatigue, blurred vision, and increased risk of infection.
Pre-pregnancy diagnosis includes fasting blood glucose testing and other more specific tests. Prenatal monitoring is essential to reduce the risk of complications such as congenital malformations, fetal macrosomia, neonatal hypoglycemia, and pre-eclampsia.
Treatment involves controlling blood glucose levels through diet, exercise and, in some cases, medication. It is important to follow an individualized plan of care and medical follow-up.
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