Why is glycemic control important for pregnant women with diabetes?

Glycemic control is crucial for pregnant women with diabetes primarily because it helps prevent high blood glucose-related birth defects. Maintaining stable blood sugar levels throughout pregnancy is essential to reduce the risk of complications for both the mother and the developing fetus. Elevated blood glucose levels during pregnancy can lead to several adverse outcomes, including congenital anomalies such as heart defects, neural tube defects, and abnormalities in the spinal cord. By managing blood sugar levels effectively, the risk of these birth defects can be significantly decreased, leading to better health outcomes for both the mother and her baby.

Moreover, good glycemic control helps mitigate other complications associated with diabetes in pregnancy, such as macrosomia (larger-than-average baby) and preeclampsia, which can further contribute to a safer delivery process.