Diabetic mothers and pregnancy loss: implications for diabetes educators

Perinatal deaths among diabetic women are sufficiently common that nearly all diabetes educators eventually care for someone who loses a baby. This case report and discussion identifies ways in which diabetes educators can promote patients' health and provide emotional first aid in the immediate aftermath of perinatal loss. Psychological reactions of both the mother and the health care providers are considered. Practical ways to assist patients, and pitfalls to avoid, also are presented.