Diabetics and C-Section

As with any surgery, there are increased risks for diabetics, and a c-section is no exception. Complications following a c-section, such as infections, stillbirths, and preterm deliveries, are more common in people with diabetes than in people without this condition. Therefore, it is extremely important that you keep all prenatal appointments and communicate any symptoms of high blood sugar to your doctor.

Diabetics and C-Section: Leaving the Hospital

As a person with diabetes, you probably know a lot about the signs and symptoms that go along with abnormal blood sugar levels, such as:
 
  • Weakness
  • Difficulty with your vision
  • Shortness of breath
  • Anxiety
  • Sweating
  • Feeling slow or tired
  • Not getting better from a cold or flu
  • Having infections that don't go away or don't get better
  • Feeling very thirsty
  • Needing to go to the bathroom a lot
  • Feeling hungry all of the time.
     
After your c-section, these symptoms may indicate a problem. For example, an infection at the c-section site can make it difficult to control blood sugar, and may require IV antibiotics to treat the infection. To help identify what is causing the symptoms, you may be asked to check your blood sugar more frequently. It is important to report any changes to your doctor as soon as possible so that the appropriate treatment can be started if necessary.
 

Diabetics and C-Section: The Risks

As a diabetic, your risks of complications with a C-section are higher.
 Although still uncommon, it is more likely for you to have:
 
  • Complications related to high blood pressure during pregnancy and childbirth
  • Infections
  • A larger-than-average baby
  • A greater probability of having a preterm delivery
  • A reaction to certain drugs used during the delivery
  • A delayed healing process
  • A stillbirth or child with a birth defect.
     
For these reasons, it is important for you to attend all scheduled prenatal and followup appointments. You should let your doctor know right away if you have trouble controlling your blood sugar or if any of the previously mentioned symptoms develop.
 
Infections can be a serious problem for people with diabetes. If your doctor thinks you might have an infection as a result of your c-section, you may need immediate medicine and treatment. Because of the risks involved, it is essential for you to communicate with your healthcare team so that they can minimize any potential problems.
 
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
 
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