A happy, healthy baby is the dream of every mother-to-be.

Having diabetes doesn't mean that dream is out of reach.

But it does mean you have to work a little harder to build a healthy foundation for your future pregnancy.

That's because your chances of having problems, like kidney damage or high blood pressure, are higher than for other women.

And there's a higher risk for your baby too.

So it's important to know what building blocks you'll need for that healthy foundation.

Start by getting a checkup from a doctor who has experience treating pregnant women with diabetes.

You need to be sure that your kidneys, heart, eyes, and nerves are ready to handle the extra stress that pregnancy will put on them.

And talk to your doctor about your diabetes medicines.

Some of them may be fine for now, but they may not be safe for your baby once you get pregnant.

Once you get that all-clear from your doctor, focus on your blood sugar.

There's never been a better time to get the best possible control over your blood sugar than right now, before you get pregnant.

Because it's not just about you ... it's about your baby too.

So work hard to get your blood sugar in your target range, and check your numbers often.

Get plenty of exercise ...

Eat healthy foods ...

And lose weight if you need to.

And of course, like any would-be mom, you'll also need to start taking a multivitamin that includes folic acid, which plays a big role in preventing birth defects.

Doing all you can to build a strong foundation before you get pregnant will increase your chances of having a healthy pregnancy ...

and that healthy, happy baby you're dreaming of.