If you’re a young person living with diabetes, there can be a lot to think about when it comes to your body, hormones, and reproductive health. From periods and contraception to relationships and future pregnancy plans, diabetes can add an extra layer of preparation. In this episode of the Life on the Level podcast, co-host Isabella Magee and credentialled diabetes educator Cheryl Nankivell talk about positive ways you can protect your health while living the life you want with type 1 diabetes.  

How your hormones affect blood glucose   

Cheryl and Isabella discuss periods and how different hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, can disrupt your blood glucose levels during the four phases of your menstrual cycle.  

Some people with type 1 diabetes experience lower blood glucose levels early in their cycle, higher levels in the week before their period, and a drop when their menstruation begins. The extent varies from person to person. 

You’re not alone – support is available  

Stress, pain, changes in appetite, sleep, and cravings around your period can also affect how you manage your diabetes. Cheryl recommends tracking your pattern over two to three months to understand how your body responds and talking with your diabetes care team about strategies suited to you.     

Balancing sex and safety  

If you’re living with type 1 diabetes, it’s vital to know that sex, like other forms of physical activity, can affect your blood glucose levels. Typically, sexual activity lowers your blood glucose levels as you burn energy and use calories. This can lead to a hypo during or several hours after sex. For other people, the stress hormone adrenaline, released during sexual activity, can cause glucose levels to rise.  

In this episode, Cheryl and Isabella discuss what to consider when it comes to sex. They stress the value of talking with your partner about what you may experience and need to stay safe during and after sex.  

Contraceptive choices and pregnancy 

People with type 1 diabetes have many safe and effective contraceptive choices. Cheryl explains that some options, like the contraceptive pill, can affect your blood glucose levels or cause other side effects. She recommends talking with your diabetes care team about the right option for you.  

Planning for pregnancy is crucial if you have type 1 diabetes as managing your blood glucose levels before conception and during pregnancy helps reduce the risk of complications.  

Tune in: Through all life’s stages  

In this episode of the Life on the Level podcast, Cheryl and Isabella talk openly about how hormonal changes can affect blood glucose levels through all life’s stages, from your first period to menopause. They share some real-life strategies and encourage you to talk with your health care team to make decisions that are right for you.