Why You May Be More Prone to Hypoglycemia Early in Pregnancy

Pregnancy brings about numerous changes in your body, including fluctuations in blood sugar levels. During the early stages of pregnancy, you may be more prone to experiencing hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. Did you know that?! I didn’t! In this blog post, we will explore why hypoglycemia can occur during early pregnancy and highlight the significance of having glucagon readily available to ensure your safety and the well-being of your baby.

Understanding Hypoglycemia in Early Pregnancy:

During pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, hormonal changes can affect insulin production and utilization, making pregnant women more susceptible to experiencing episodes of hypoglycemia, this is likely caused by increased progesterone levels. I was wondering why I was experiencing constant lows until my endocrinologist mentioned this. Up until this point, I thought it would be high blood sugar levels that I would be faced with, not lows!

The Importance of Glucagon:

Glucagon is a hormone that plays a vital role in regulating blood sugar levels. Since our bodies likely no longer produce glucagon on their own, having a glucagon kit on hand is crucial during pregnancy, particularly in the early stages, as it can quickly and effectively counteract hypoglycemic episodes.

I picked up this nasal glucagon kit. Check the GoodRx app for cheaper prices.

Safety for You and Your Baby:

Hypoglycemia can pose risks not only to your well-being but also to the health of your baby. By having glucagon available, you can take immediate action to raise your blood sugar levels, safeguarding both yourself and your little one.

Consult Your Healthcare Provider:

As with any medical decision during pregnancy, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider regarding the management of hypoglycemia. They will provide personalized guidance and advice based on your specific situation, ensuring that you have a comprehensive plan in place to address hypoglycemic episodes effectively.

Are you worried about hypos? Here are some Tips for Managing Hypoglycemia:

In addition to having glucagon as a safety measure, there are several proactive steps you can take to manage and prevent hypoglycemia during early pregnancy:

• Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly (obviously! But like, use a CGM if you’re not already)
• Eat regular, balanced meals and snacks, focusing on nutrient-dense foods (I know it’s hard in the 1st trimester, but even lowering your basal if you need to or setting temp rates on your pump if you’re unable to keep food down might be a good idea to consider).
• Stay hydrated throughout the day.
• Carry quick-acting sources of glucose, such as glucose tablets or juice, for immediate relief.
• Inform family, friends, and colleagues about your condition, so they can provide support when needed.
• And if you’re like me, try to be extra mindful not to rage bolus! (Aka injecting wayyy too much insulin when you’re trending higher).

During early pregnancy, the increased likelihood of experiencing hypoglycemia calls for proactive measures to maintain stable blood sugar levels. But don’t worry! It’s not something to worry about, it’s just best to stay informed about what changes might be in store for you so that you can take preventative measures and stay extra mindful. I noticed my blood sugars were trending lower during the first 4-8 weeks of pregnancy, and then they slowly started creeping up. You’ll likely have to make some adjustments as you go, sometimes these adjustments come on pretty sudden, so having a medical team in your corner every step of the way helps.

(Note: It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice regarding hypoglycemia and the use of glucagon during pregnancy.)