Diabetes affects women way differently than it affects men. As per 2020 the research study, more than one in 10 women aged between 35 and 49 suffer from diabetes in India.

Dr. Anuradha Kapoor is a renowned Diabetologist in Mumbai and currently practicing at Zenith Hospital, Mumbai. For the past 18 years, she has worked as a Diabetologist. She is a well-known member of the United diabetes forum, Indian medical association, All India Association of family physician Mumbai and Kandivali Medical Association Mumbai.

Signs and symptoms of diabetes in a woman

Dr. Anuradha Kapoor informs, “The signs and symptoms of diabetes are similar in males and females. There are some signs and symptoms of diabetes which are commonly found in women which are as follows- 

• Vaginal itching 
• Pain in vagina 
• Vaginal and oral fungal infection 
• Decrease in sexual drive 
• PCOS range symptoms 
• UTI (Urinary tract infection).”

Diabetes in women

Dr. Anuradha Kapoor states, “Diabetes in females causes - 

• Increases in heart attack risk in women as compared to males are 4 times at higher risk.” 

Pregnancy and Diabetes 

Dr. Anuradha Kapoor says, “This is very important for every woman to know about diabetes which causes- 

• Hyperglycemia in pregnancy (increase in blood glucose level) 
• Risk of pre- eclampsia (High BP)
• Stillbirth 
• Preterm delivery 
• Miscarriage 
• High birth weight baby causing complications 
• Long-term diabetes after delivery 
• Breathing problems in newborns 
• Low sugar levels in newborns.”

Every pregnant woman should control her blood sugar levels. And if she has high blood sugar before pregnancy, it is important to consult a diabetologist for a healthy pregnancy and baby.

Menstrual cycle and Diabetes 

Dr. Anuradha Kapoor emphasizes, “Diabetes does not majorly affect the menstrual cycle. The menstrual cycle is regulated by hormones. During menstruation, there is fluctuation in hormonal levels which makes it difficult to predict blood glucose levels. 

Diabetes in women may affect the menstrual cycle and cause- 

• Heavy bleeding 
• Fluctuation in sugar levels 

Do not ignore this and consult a doctor who will guide you with a proper diet and sleep pattern. 

Controlling sugar in Menopause 

Dr. Anuradha Kapoor informs, “Every woman has to go through the menopause stage. Menopause causes hormonal changes which lead to low estrogen (female hormone.) During menopause, there is - 

• Fluctuation in blood sugar levels 
• The unpredictable rise in blood sugar levels
• Weight gain due to loss of estrogen 
• Increase in insulin resistance 
• Increase in insulin requirement
• Sexual dysfunction 

You should consult a doctor to control blood sugar levels in menopause and lead a normal life. 

Cardiovascular issues due to diabetes

Dr. Anuradha Kapoor states, “Women with diabetes suffer from high risk of heart attack than men due to the occurrence of menopause and low estrogen levels. Menopause causes a lowering of the protective effect of estrogen. This increases blood sugar levels. You should consult a doctor in such cases for heart diseases.”

Rapid fire

1. Does wearing diabetic footwear ease a person with diabetic complications?

Dr. Anuradha Kapoor says, “Yes, Diabetic footwear is suggested to patients who are at high risk of developing diabetic neuropathy and diabetic foot. 

2. Can a diabetic eat fruits?

Dr. Anuradha Kapoor states, “Yes, they can consume good quality fruits like-

• Apple
• Pear 
• Papaya 

3. Suggest some super nutritious foods for diabetes

Dr. Anuradha Kapoor informs, “Diabetics should reduce the consumption of - 

• Rice 
• Poha 
• Suji 
• Puffed rice 
• White sugar 

Diabetics can consume- 

• Whole grain cereals
• Dals and lentils 
• Fiber-rich foods 
• Fruits and veggies 
• Milk and milk products 
• Fish and chicken.”