Endocrine Abstracts

Discussion/Conclusion: Sexual & reproductive health are important areas to be considered in the care of young people with Type 1 diabetes remembering that risk-taking behaviour is more common in those with chronic conditions. Education and advice about sexual health & contraception should be provided taking into account any background cultural and religious differences. Adolescent girls with diabetes should be aware of the importance of a planned pregnancy and that ovulation is preserved in the presence of poor glycaemic control. A number of methods of contraception are suitable for use in YP with diabetes including the combined oral contraceptive pill. Despite considerable progress, studies from the UK reveal poor outcomes for women with diabetes in pregnancy including a two-fold increased risk of congenital malformation, a five-fold increased risk of stillbirth and a three-fold increase in perinatal mortality rates and caesarean delivery compared with the background population. Improved outcomes may be achieved by intensive glycaemic control both before and during pregnancy.