Month 1-3: Monthly Appointments Begin

Your medical team will become your steadfast companions in the early stages of pregnancy. Expect monthly appointments, where they will monitor your progress and address any concerns. In this post we’ll cover what appointments to expect during pregnancy with type 1 diabetes! During this time, you’ll typically undergo:

• Ultrasounds: These visually check your baby’s development and ensure everything is on track.
  
• Genetic Screening (Optional): You may be offered genetic screening, but the choice to proceed is entirely yours. It can provide valuable insights into your baby’s health.
  
• Blood Work: Regular blood tests help keep a close eye on your glucose levels and overall health. If you opt for the NIPT test around week ten, you will also have the opportunity to find out the sex of the baby if you want to.
  

Week #20: Anatomy Scan (1-1.5 Hours)

Around the halfway point, you’ll experience a more extensive appointment. The anatomy scan, lasting approximately 1-1.5 hours, offers a detailed look at your baby’s development. During this scan, they will look at all of the organs. NOTE: This doesn’t happen to everyone, but I could not lay on my back for too long during this scan because I started feeling faint. Don’t be alarmed if this happens. Be sure to let the technician know, and they will have you take breaks and lie on your left side until you feel better. This can happen because your uterus can put pressure against blood vessels, restricting blood flow to your heart.

Week 20/24: Growth Scan (Starting Monthly)

As your pregnancy progresses, monthly growth scans become routine. These scans ensure your baby is developing as expected and provide important data for your medical team (and you).

Week 24: Fetal Echo Scan

At week 24, expect a fetal echo scan. This specialized ultrasound examines your baby’s heart, ensuring it’s healthy and functioning optimally.

Starting Week 32: Weekly Antenatal Scans

You’ll have weekly antenatal scans in the final stretch of your pregnancy. These frequent check-ins monitor your and your baby’s well-being, providing peace of mind as you approach the big day.

Every 2 Weeks: Appointments with your Endocrinology Team

Managing type 1 diabetes during pregnancy is a delicate balance. Most likely, you’ll meet with your Endocrinology (Endo) team every two weeks. During these appointments, they will assess and adjust your basal settings, ensuring your glucose levels remain stable and safe for you and your baby.

Conclusion:

Navigating pregnancy with Type 1 diabetes demands careful planning and regular medical attention. Your appointments are not just routine visits but milestones on your journey toward a healthy pregnancy. Embrace them as opportunities to ensure the well-being of both you and your little one. You can confidently stride towards a beautiful and healthy pregnancy with your dedicated medical team.

Have questions? Want to connect? I’d love to hear from you! Head over to Instagram and say hello

The post Your Appointment Roadmap: Pregnancy and Type 1 Diabetes appeared first on More Than Just a Type.

Not only that, but our bodies are completely different. This post is not to imitate, but more to view as a look inside what my settings are during pregnancy so you can see it as a possibility for what could be in store for you! I am using the Tandem Tx2 slim insulin pump paired with Dexcom.

This is just data from my own experience and your experience may be different!

If your experience is much different, know that is okay and totally normal. Our bodies are, after all, not the same even though we both experience diabetes. I would love to hear how things change(d) for you during each trimester. I hope this gives you some insight into what you might expect during the 1st and 2nd trimesters of pregnancy.

The post Basal Setting Comparison from 1st-2nd Trimester appeared first on More Than Just a Type.

Finding Your Safe Lifting Zone:

Lifting during pregnancy is a personal journey, and it’s essential to consider your fitness level before making adjustments. Evaluate your experience in the gym, training age, and previous lifting capacity to determine the right intensity for your second trimester. Understanding your limits will help you choose the appropriate weight for a safer workout.

Drop the Load, Increase the Reps:

During the second trimester, you might not be able to lift as heavily as before, and that’s perfectly normal. Instead of pushing for maximum weights, focus on reducing the load and increasing your repetitions. Opting for 8-12 reps with good form will help you maintain proper volume while minimizing strain and the risk of injury.

Controlling Intraabdominal Pressure:

Understanding how intraabdominal pressure affects your body is crucial for a safe workout routine. Excessive pressure can lead to discomfort and complications during pregnancy. Intradominal pressure is the steady state pressure concealed in the abdominal cavity. If you notice bulging or pelvic floor pressure during certain exercises, it’s a sign of excessive abdominal pressure, which you should aim to avoid.

Avoid Exercises That Produce Coning and Doming:

What is coning and doming? This is when you’re doing an exercise and you see a ridge or a bulge popping out in the middle of your stomach.

Certain exercises can cause coning (linea alba pushing outwards) or doming, indicating a muscular imbalance where the rectus over-dominates the transverse abdominals. Some common movements that may cause coning include sit-ups, overhead presses, pull-ups, and spinal extensions. To minimize coning and protect your core, opt for exercises that promote a neutral spine position and reduce the range of motion.

Strategies to Minimize Coning:

• Focus on maintaining a neutral spine position during exercises, especially during overhead movements.
• Choose variations of exercises that are accessible to you while keeping a neutral position.
• Listen to your body and be willing to modify exercises if they don’t feel comfortable or safe.

CONING VS DOMING:

Doming: “breadloafing” = (abdominal doing). Think of a sit-up, or sitting up in bed, when your abs engage and create a bread loaf look. 

Coning: Coning could look like a tent-type shape of the abdomen. Happens due to diastasic recti (a normal separation of the 6-pack abs during pregnancy). The pressure within the abdominal cavity exceeds the capacity of the abdominal wall thus pushing it out.

Ab exercises are generally recommended to avoid during pregnancy.

Avoid Pelvic pressure: 

During pregnancy, you want to be extra careful to avoid any pressure or pain in your pelvic area.

Listening to Your Body:

Above all else, remember to check in with yourself and your body regularly. As your pregnancy progresses, you may need to adjust your workout routine to accommodate your changing needs. Always prioritize your safety and comfort, and consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.

Staying active during your second trimester can bring numerous benefits to both you and your baby. By understanding your body, making appropriate modifications, and following these strategies, you can continue to enjoy the benefits of weightlifting while keeping yourself and your little one safe. Every pregnancy is unique, so trust yourself and be mindful of what feels right for you. Happy and safe lifting!

Want to know specific exercise modifications during pregnancy? Join Thrive and connect with me!

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Embracing The Journey

They say pregnancy is a time to focus on the miracle of life growing inside you, not on your weight. And they’re right. But let’s be honest, watching those pounds add up on the scale can be a bit disconcerting, even if you understand the science behind it. As someone who has experienced rapid weight gain early on, I can relate to the mixed emotions that come with this journey. So, let’s dive into the reasons behind these changes, dispel some worries, and find solace in the shared experiences of pregnancy.

The Initial Weight Gain:

• When I discovered I was pregnant, I had been maintaining a slight calorie deficit. Naturally, I shifted my focus to nourishing my body and started consuming an extra 200-300 calories a day to increase my calories back up to maintenance. But the sudden surge on the scale wasn’t a cause for alarm. Most of this early weight gain can be attributed to water retention as your glycogen stores become fuller due to the increased calorie intake. It’s not body fat; it’s your body preparing to support a new life.

The Changing Shape:

• Entering the second trimester, I noticed some weight gain beyond the belly. This can be a challenging aspect of pregnancy for many women, myself included. Suddenly, our thighs touch, our arms appear larger, and we may feel self-conscious about changes in our appearance. Rest assured, these changes are completely normal. Weight gain during pregnancy can manifest in various parts of the body, and it’s all part of the journey.

Feeling “Fat” and the Journey to Self-Acceptance:

• During pregnancy, it’s common to feel a little disconnected from your own body. I personally struggled with this, as my naturally high rib cage and overall weight gain made me feel less like a glowing mother-to-be and more like someone who had simply gained extra pounds. It’s important to remember that these thoughts are normal, but they don’t define us. Our bodies are doing something incredible, and it’s crucial to embrace the changes and nurture self-acceptance throughout the journey.

Understanding Your Unique Timeline:

• Every pregnancy is different, and so is the timing of baby bumps. For first-time mothers like me, it’s common not to show a significant bump until later in the second trimester. So, if you’re not seeing the classic baby bump yet, don’t worry; you’re not alone. Embrace the diversity of experiences and trust that your body will reveal the miracle in due time.

Pregnancy is a remarkable journey filled with physical changes, emotional roller coasters, and a profound connection to new life. As we navigate this transformative time, it’s crucial to approach our bodies with compassion and understanding. Weight gain during pregnancy is a natural part of the process, and it’s important to remember that it doesn’t define our worth or beauty. However, while we don’t want to obsess about food, it’s important to know that we aren’t exactly “eating for two” during this time and that our overall calorie consumption still matters, somewhat. Let’s celebrate the amazing things our bodies can do and embrace this chapter with love, acceptance, and a sense of awe.

Share your experiences:

I would love to hear about your own journey and when you first started showing. Remember, your story is unique and valuable, and by sharing it, we can support and uplift one another on this incredible path to motherhood. Together, we can navigate the ups and downs with grace and resilience.

The post Your Body During Pregnancy appeared first on More Than Just a Type.

First Trimester: A Gentle Boost

During the first trimester, your body is adjusting to the changes brought on by pregnancy. At this stage, you may not need to increase your calories much at all, and if you’re finding it hard to consume any extra calories, don’t fret – try to make it a priority to focus on nutritious foods as much as you can (if that’s even possible). As you near the 2nd trimester, and during the 2nd trimester, It’s typically recommended to consume an additional 200-300 calories per day. That’s roughly equivalent to a nourishing combination such as 2 eggs and a large banana or 2 eggs and 2 slices of wholesome Ezekiel bread. Remember, these are just examples, and you can choose foods that suit your preferences and dietary needs. In the third trimester consuming roughly 500 calories extra per day is recommended. These numbers are if you’re carrying one fetus.

Note: when I found out I was pregnant I was maintaining a slight deficit, so I bumped my calories up to maintenance during this phase of pregnancy.

Listening to Your Body:

While it’s possible to track your food intake using helpful apps like MyFitnessPal, you don’t need to obsessively count calories. Trust your body’s wisdom and signals. Personally, I find it helpful to check in every few days to ensure I’m on the right track. If I happen to overconsume calories one day, my body usually lets me know—I might feel a bit bloated or overly full. So, stay mindful and in tune with your body’s needs.

Why Excessive Weight Gain Should Be Avoided:

Now, you might wonder why it’s important to avoid gaining too much weight during pregnancy. Well, the general recommendation for individuals at a healthy weight is to aim for a total weight gain of 25-30 pounds over nine months. This figure may vary depending on your initial weight—whether you were lean or overweight before pregnancy. Excessive weight gain can lead to challenges such as a larger baby, stretch marks, and a greater amount of weight to lose post-baby.

Next Steps: Maintaining Balance and Wellness

In this post, we delve deeper into the topic of weight gain during pregnancy and provide you with more comprehensive details. However, for now, let’s focus on some essential guidelines. Firstly, trust your body’s cues and fuel it with foods that it craves, as long as they are safe to consume during pregnancy. Additionally, it’s crucial to be mindful of your overall calorie intake and the macros (macronutrients) you consume—especially once you enter the second trimester and hopefully experience relief from nausea.

Nurturing your body during pregnancy is a beautiful act of self-care. By understanding your body’s calorie requirements and respecting its signals, you can maintain a healthy balance. Remember, you don’t have to meticulously count every calorie, but staying mindful of your choices will contribute to your overall well-being. Enjoy this incredible journey and stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll explore pregnancy weight gain in detail.

The post How Many Calories Extra to Consume During Pregnancy appeared first on More Than Just a Type.

Pregnancy is often portrayed as a blissful journey filled with joy and excitement. And while those sunny moments are undoubtedly part of the experience, let’s take a moment to acknowledge that it’s not always rainbows and unicorns. Today, we’re diving into the not-so-sunny side of pregnancy, especially during the rollercoaster ride that is the first trimester. So grab a cup of tea, get cozy, and let’s normalize those pregnancy hormones and emotions together.

It’s Okay to Feel Down:

You’re growing a tiny human inside you, and that’s an incredible feat. But let’s be real—it can also be overwhelming. The first trimester, in particular, brings a surge of hormones that can wreak havoc on your emotions. Feeling down, anxious, or even depressed is not unusual. Remember, you’re not alone in this. Many moms-to-be go through similar experiences, and it’s essential to normalize these emotions. I was so depressed I could barely get out of bed, working out became a chore and everything I used to love to do became unexciting. Who am I?? It was nothing short of horrible, and every day was a struggle. If you’re in the same boat, remember these feelings will at some point pass.

Hormonal Havoc:

Ah, hormones—the little troublemakers responsible for mood swings and emotional rollercoasters – like, IS it my hormones or am I just a bitch? During the first trimester, they can send you on a wild ride, leaving you feeling like you’re on an emotional see-saw. One moment, you may be laughing hysterically at a cat video, and the next, you’re crying over spilled orange juice. Embrace the chaos, dear mama. It’s all part of the beautiful mess of pregnancy. Oh, and let’s not forget about anger. I was so angry about everything.

Seeking Support:

When you’re feeling down, remember that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Reach out to your partner, friends, or family members who can provide a listening ear and a shoulder to lean on. Additionally, consider joining online communities or local support groups where you can connect with other moms-to-be who are going through similar emotional journeys. If you want to reach out, I’m here. One thing that helped me in addition to sharing with close friends was journaling. Sharing your experiences and finding comfort in others’ stories can be incredibly healing.

Self-Care for the Soul:

Taking care of your emotional well-being is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Embrace self-care practices that resonate with you. Whether it’s journaling, going for walks in nature, practicing meditation or yoga, or indulging in a guilty pleasure (hello, Netflix binge!), make time for activities that bring you peace and joy. Remember, you deserve to prioritize your emotional well-being during this transformative time. What did I do? Well, I spent A LOT of time in bed watching Netflix to try and distract myself from all of my problems. Then, I booked an Akashic reading with a dear woman named Megan Coetzee, who I highly recommend. She gave me clarity on my pregnancy when I was having doubts. I played with my tarot cards A LOT (even though I didn’t exactly know how to read them lol), I forced myself to walk a little bit each day and I spent A LOT of time with my dog and cat who provided me a little glimpse of joy through the darkness. I tried to pinpoint the areas I felt most depressed about, and what I realized was that my fears were bigger than anything else and they were consuming me. That was a huge start in figuring out ways to cope.

Professional Support:

If your feelings of depression persist or intensify, it’s crucial to seek professional help. Speak openly with your healthcare provider about what you’re experiencing. They can offer guidance, and resources, or even refer you to a mental health professional who specializes in supporting pregnant women. Remember, there’s no shame in asking for help. Your well-being matters, and seeking the right support can make a world of difference. I was so close to getting some therapy through one of these resources during this difficult time: BetterHelp & Talk Space.

Dear mama, pregnancy is a remarkable journey, but it’s also okay to acknowledge the challenges and emotional ups and downs that come with it. The first trimester can be particularly tough, and when your world feels like it’s crumbling, remember that you’re stronger than you realize. Embrace the not-so-sunny side of pregnancy with compassion and understanding, and know that you’re not alone. Together, let’s normalize the reality of pregnancy emotions, and depression, supporting and inspiring each other along the way. You’ve got this, mama!

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Setting the Goals:

When I first read these targets from my doctor I felt super overwhelmed! So, before we dive in, take a deep breath and know that you’ve 100% got what it takes even if tight targets make you feel nervous.

To ensure a healthy pregnancy, it is important to establish blood sugar goals. Here are the key targets to aim for:

• A1C Level: Your A1C should be less than 6.0%, with no blood sugars exceeding 140mg/DL (7.8 mmol/L)

• Fasting Blood Sugar: Your fasting target should range between 65 and 95 mg/dl (3.5-5.2 mmol/L) This refers to your blood sugar level upon waking up in the morning, before consuming any food or beverages.
• Post-Meal Blood Sugar: Aim to keep your blood sugar levels in check one hour after a meal, maintaining them below 140 mg/dl (7.8 mmol/L). Similarly, two hours after a meal, strive to have your blood sugar levels below 120 mg/dl (6.7 mmol/L).

Navigating with Tandem Txslim Pump:

If you use the Tandem Txslim pump, it is worth noting that the Control IQ feature may not be ideal during pregnancy. While Control IQ automates some aspects of blood sugar management, it may allow your sugars to rise too high. As a result, it is recommended to switch to manual mode and take charge of self-adjusting your insulin levels during pregnancy. By actively managing your pump settings, you can tailor your insulin delivery to meet the tighter blood sugar targets required during this time.

The Journey Towards a Healthy Baby:

While the journey to maintaining optimal blood sugar levels during pregnancy may require additional effort, the rewards are immeasurable. By diligently adhering to your blood sugar goals and closely monitoring your levels, you are actively working towards the well-being of both yourself and your baby. Consult with your healthcare team regularly, as they will provide personalized guidance to support you throughout this process. Generally, you’ll consult with your team once per week or bi-weekly, and perhaps more frequently as you progress into the third trimester.

Pregnancy is a remarkable chapter in life, and individuals with diabetes can successfully navigate it by prioritizing their blood sugar goals. By striving for an A1C below 6.0%, fasting blood sugar between 65 and 95 mg/dl, and post-meal blood sugar levels below 140 mg/dl (1 hour) and 120 mg/dl (2 hours), you can help ensure a healthier pregnancy and a brighter future for your child. Remember, the journey may be challenging at times, but the ultimate reward of a healthy baby is worth every effort you invest. Stay committed, stay informed, and enjoy this incredible experience. I KNOW you can do it!

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Pregnancy is an extraordinary journey filled with joy, anticipation, and a multitude of questions. Diabetes is a complex disease, and when it comes to the combination of pregnancy AND diabetes, it’s natural to have concerns and encounter various myths along the way (so many misconceptions about diabetes, right!?) In this blog post, we will debunk common misconceptions surrounding pregnancy and diabetes, empowering you with the truth to make informed decisions and embrace this chapter with confidence.

Myth #1: “You have to have children before the age of 30-35.”

One prevalent myth is that women with diabetes must have children before the age of 30-35. However, the truth is that women with diabetes can safely conceive and have healthy pregnancies at any age, given the right knowledge and support. By working closely with your healthcare team and managing your diabetes effectively, you can create a nurturing environment for your baby, regardless of your age. 

Myth #2: “Diabetes means I can’t have a healthy baby.”

This myth couldn’t be further from the truth. With proper diabetes management, you absolutely can have a healthy baby. By maintaining stable blood sugar levels through regular monitoring, following a personalized meal plan, and staying physically active, you are actively promoting your baby’s well-being. Seeking guidance from healthcare professionals who specialize in diabetes and pregnancy will provide you with the support and tools necessary for a positive outcome.

Myth #3: “People with diabetes are prone to give birth by 36 weeks.”

While it’s true that some women with diabetes may give birth earlier than the typical 40-week mark, it’s not a universal rule. The timing of delivery is determined on an individual basis, considering various factors such as maternal health, blood sugar control, and the well-being of both the mother and baby. With proper care and monitoring, it is possible to carry your pregnancy to full term.

Myth #4: “It is common for people with diabetes to have babies with underdeveloped lungs.”

The idea that babies born to mothers with diabetes often have underdeveloped lungs is a misconception. While it’s true that diabetes can pose some risks, proper diabetes management greatly reduces the likelihood of complications. By effectively controlling your blood sugar levels and receiving prenatal care, you can significantly minimize any potential risks to your baby’s lung development.

Myth #5: “You cannot have a home birth with a high-risk pregnancy when you have diabetes.”

Home births can be a desirable option for some expecting mothers, but it’s often believed that they are off-limits for those with diabetes or high-risk pregnancies. However, the truth is that home birth can still be a possibility under the right circumstances. It requires careful planning, close collaboration with your healthcare team, and if your blood sugars are well controlled it’s a fact that you are actually no more “high-risk” than a person who is living without diabetes.

Truth #1: “High blood sugar can increase the size of your baby, which is part of the reason why it’s crucial to keep sugars in range during pregnancy.“

Maintaining stable blood sugar levels throughout pregnancy is essential. Elevated blood sugar levels can increase the size of your baby. By diligently managing your diabetes, adhering to your healthcare provider’s recommendations, and keeping your blood sugar within a healthy range, you minimize the risk of your baby growing excessively and reduce the likelihood of complications.

Don’t let myths cloud your understanding of pregnancy and diabetes. Armed with the truth, you can confidently navigate this unique journey. Remember, with the right knowledge, support from healthcare professionals, and proactive diabetes management, you can have a healthy pregnancy and welcome a beautiful and healthy baby into your life. And let’s not forget, that diabetes is not a perfect disease, therefore not every day will be 100% – but when your overall management is good, you have nothing to be any more concerned about than someone who is living without diabetes. Embrace the truth, dispel the myths, and embark on this remarkable chapter with optimism and empowerment. You’ve got this!

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