Contraception Options for Women with Well-Controlled Diabetes

General Considerations

Women with well-controlled diabetes can safely use all contraceptive methods available to women without diabetes, as the risk of an unplanned pregnancy outweighs the risk of any given contraception option, according to the American Diabetes Association 1, 2
Planning pregnancy is critical for women with diabetes due to the need for preconception glycemic control to prevent congenital malformations and reduce other complications, as recommended by the American Diabetes Association 3, 1
All women with diabetes of childbearing potential should have family planning options reviewed regularly to ensure effective contraception is maintained, as suggested by the American Diabetes Association 1
Preconception care should include attainment of glycemic goals (ideally A1C <6.5%) prior to conception, according to the American Diabetes Association 4

Long-acting reversible contraception may be ideal for many women with diabetes, as stated by the American Diabetes Association 1, 5
Reduced risk of unplanned pregnancy is a benefit of long-acting reversible contraception, according to the American Diabetes Association 3

Preconception planning is essential for women with diabetes who wish to become pregnant, as recommended by the American Diabetes Association 2, 4
Women should achieve optimal glycemic control before discontinuing contraception, according to the American Diabetes Association 6
Regular screening for complications that might affect contraceptive choice or pregnancy outcomes should be part of routine care, as suggested by the American Diabetes Association 2, 7
The risk of unplanned pregnancy generally outweighs the risk of any given contraception option, according to the American Diabetes Association 1
Evaluate for hypertension, which may limit contraceptive options, as recommended by the American Diabetes Association 8