Final answer:
In women with preexisting insulin-dependent diabetes, there is an increased rate of complications during pregnancy such as ketoacidosis. There's also a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, and complications like infections and delayed wound healing due to hyperglycemia.
Step-by-step explanation:
In women with preexisting insulin-dependent diabetes, there is an increased rate of several complications during pregnancy. One of these complications is the hypersecretion of androgens, which often occurs in conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). This hypersecretion can lead to insulin resistance, which can elevate blood glucose levels, increasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. In fact, more than 50% of women with PCOS are at a high risk of developing diabetes or pre-diabetes before the age of 40.
During the third trimester of pregnancy, insulin needs can double, which may lead to overproduction of ketone bodies, known as ketoacidosis, in insulin-dependent diabetic patients. Gestational insulin demands can exacerbate the underlying condition, leading to higher rates of maternal and fetal complications.
Overall, poorly controlled diabetes can lead to serious health issues, such as heart attacks, blindness, kidney failure, and increased susceptibility to infections and delayed wound healing due to hyperglycemia. It is essential for women with insulin-dependent diabetes to carefully manage their condition, especially during pregnancy.