How to control blood sugar levels post pregnancy?

Question

Hi doctor,

My partner has PCOD. She got conceived before a year and delivered baby boy of three kilograms. But her blood sugar was slightly high before we planned a pregnancy. She started taking Metformin 500 mg after she became pregnant and continued Metformin 500 mg throughout pregnancy. Her sugar profile was healthy throughout the pregnancy with Metformin. Now after pregnancy, she is taking Metformin 500 mg at night before dinner. Now her FBS and PPBS (post lunch) sugar are regular. But PPBS (post-dinner) has got risen to 145 mg/dL and 165 mg/dL. The doctor advised her to take Metformin one tablet before dinner for six weeks after delivery. The doctor advised her to stop the drug when the sugar level comes under control. But her PPBS (post-dinner) is at a higher range. What can be done? Earlier we thought that it was due to PCOD. But now we are tensed whether she has developed full-fledged diabetes. Please guide us for the further course of management.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Women who have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. They are diagnosed at an earlier age with this condition. It is a state of insulin resistance. In post-pregnancy, she can have high blood sugar values, especially in post-meal up to six weeks and even up to 12 weeks. If she has a family history of diabetes type 2, she is at high risk of developing it too. In hormone imbalance state, the risk doubles. At this point, I would recommend taking Metformin 500 mg twice daily at least for three months. She should take a healthy diet with low starch and high protein. Doing exercise can also help to lose weight. Diet and exercise help a lot. Monitor blood sugar levels weekly thrice in the fasting period in the morning before breakfast, in post lunch and post-dinner or before bedtime. Keep a track while taking Metformin and the doctor can adjust the medicine. Diet and exercise can reverse the condition, or it can push it to ten years forwards.