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Did you know, diabetes can affect IVF outcomes due to its effects on hormonal balance, egg and sperm quality, and blood vessel health? In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Nandini Devi, gynecologist, obstetrician and infertility specialist – center head of Indira IVF in Chennai, explains, “For diabetic women, high blood sugar can interfere with ovulation, while for men. “It can reduce sperm motility and integrity.”
She further added, “Poorly controlled diabetes increases the risk of complications such as miscarriage, congenital abnormalities and high blood pressure in pregnancy. Managing blood sugar levels before and during IVF is essential to improve success rates and reduce complications.
- Egg quality and quantity: Diabetes can affect ovarian function, reducing the quality and quantity of viable eggs due to hormonal imbalance. This presents a challenge in obtaining the high quality eggs needed for successful IVF.
- Embryo Quality: High blood sugar levels can also affect the quality of embryos, making them less likely to implant and develop within the uterus.
- Risks of miscarriage and premature birth: Women with diabetes have a higher risk of miscarriage and premature birth than women without diabetes, largely due to complications related to blood sugar control during pregnancy.
- Effect on male fertility: Diabetes affects male fertility by reducing sperm quality and motility, which can impair fertilization outcomes during IVF.

- Additional Risks: Women with diabetes have an increased risk of preeclampsia, a condition characterized by high blood pressure that can cause complications for both mother and baby. Babies born to mothers with diabetes are more likely to have congenital anomalies, and are also more likely to require cesarean section due to potential complications.
Risks and Considerations for Diabetics
Dr. Nandini Devi advises patients who want to get pregnant through IVF to coordinate care between fertility specialists and endocrinologists during pregnancy. They cautioned, “Diabetic patients conceiving through IVF have an increased risk of complications such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia and high birth weight. Coordination between fertility specialists, endocrinologists and gynecologists is essential to closely monitor blood sugar, blood pressure and fetal growth during pregnancy. This team-based approach helps manage risks effectively and provides comprehensive support.”

Diet and lifestyle recommendations
To help improve both blood sugar control and fertility in diabetic patients undergoing IVF, Dr. Nandini Devi advises, “A balanced diet rich in low-glycemic, lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of vegetables will help control blood sugar. Beneficial to manage the level. Patients should aim for regular exercise, good sleep, and stress management practices like yoga or meditation, as stress can increase blood sugar fluctuations. Avoiding processed foods, sugary beverages, and alcohol may also improve results.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
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