Women and diabetes

Diabetes can affect women at different stages in their life, and conversely, different stages of a woman's life can influence the disease.

Here are some specific characteristics of diabetes in women.

Puberty

Type-1 diabetes does not cause any particular abnormalities during puberty.

Conversely, in the case of type-2 diabetes, certain disorders, such as polycystic ovary syndrome – characterised by early menstrual cycle disorders, excessive hair growth and insulin resistance – are often detected during puberty. These disorders require specific monitoring and preventive measures for type-2 diabetes.

Contraception

The choice of contraceptive method, particularly the pill, must be tailored and discussed with the patient's doctor, as not all pills are suitable for people with diabetes.

Fertility

Diabetes, particularly if not well controlled, can contribute to some fertility issues.

Furthermore, type-1 diabetes, which is an autoimmune disease, is associated with an increased risk of premature ovarian failure (decreased egg production), which can be an indication for medically assisted reproduction.

Similarly, chronic glycaemic imbalance or unstable retinal damage are (temporary) obstacles to planning a pregnancy.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy in a mother with diabetes must be prepared for in advance and closely monitored at all times.

Treatment and monitoring during pregnancy should be intensified, and insulin doses should be adjusted to meet the increasing needs towards the end of pregnancy.

Finally, for some women, pregnancy might be the first time they experience diabetes, in the form of gestational diabetes.

Menopause

Diabetes is not a factor in early menopause.

However, menopausal symptoms (hot flushes, mood swings, sleep problems, etc.) can influence the management of the disease, particularly because they can be confused with those of hypoglycaemia.

In addition, oestrogen deficiency during the menopause has an influence on body composition and fat distribution, which can then affect insulin resistance and glycaemic balance.

The diabetes treatment should be reviewed where necessary.