Understanding the Risks and Precautions
Women with diabetes can undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments but may require additional precautions and management. Diabetes can affect fertility and IVF success due to high blood sugar levels disrupting ovulation and making conception more difficult. Uncontrolled diabetes can also lead to other health issues that may impact fertility and IVF success.
It is essential for women with diabetes planning to undergo IVF to have their diabetes well-controlled before starting treatment. This minimizes the risk of complications and optimizes the chances of successful IVF. Women with diabetes may need to work closely with a diabetes specialist to ensure their blood sugar levels are controlled before, during, and after the IVF cycle.
Anti-diabetic medications can potentially affect the outcome of an IVF cycle. Some medications, such as metformin and insulin, can affect ovulation and ovarian development while others may affect the endometrium – the lining of the uterus where the fertilized egg implants. It is crucial to have a comprehensive discussion with your IVF specialist and diabetes doctor to determine if IVF is appropriate for you.