Diabetes and pregnancy: Risks and opportunities

Diabetes in pregnancy increases the risk of adverse maternal, obstetric, fetal, and neonatal outcomes. Internists can reduce these risks by optimizing glycemic control before conception and providing effective counseling on strategies to reduce the risks associated with pregnancy and diabetes. Routine screening of reproductive-age women with diabetes should include a comprehensive physical examination and laboratory tests to identify at-risk patients and begin strategic management. A review of medications for teratogenic potential is also needed.