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Diabetes Health Centre
Pregnancy |
Managing Diabetes in the Third Trimester
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During the third trimester women with diabetes are monitored frequently and may have several ultrasounds.
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Nutritional needs
You may prefer more frequent, small meals at this time. Again it is important to consult with a dietitian to ensure that you are obtaining adequate nutrition and eating a variety of foods that you enjoy.
Weight
Weight increases steadily at this stage. If your weight was at a healthy level prior to pregnancy, you can expect about 1/2 - 1 lb. (1/2 kg) weight gain weekly. If you suddenly gain a lot of weight or notice swelling, you should contact your doctor.
Medical Visits
During this last trimester the baby's growth and development are closely monitored. You can expect further ultrasounds, weekly biophysical profiles that use ultrasound to assess fetal activity and amniotic fluid, and non-stress tests that monitor the baby's heart rate. All of these tests are done on an outpatient basis.
Daily assessment of the baby's activity by the mother is often started after 28 weeks. This involves counting movements made by the baby each day.
Insulin Adjustment
You can expect your blood glucose to rise in this trimester, which will often necessitate a significant increase in insulin. Many women find they need to triple their insulin dose. Close to the end of your pregnancy, your insulin dose may start to level out. Should the total amount of insulin decrease by more that 15 percent, contact your physician. This may be an indication that you are ready to deliver.
Back to Pregnancy with type 1 or type 2 diabetes
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