Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 Diabetes is a preventable, life-long disease in which there is a high level of sugar in the blood. It can put women at a higher risk for health issues like blindness, depression and heart disease. Type 2 Diabetes also can make it more difficult to get pregnant or increase the risk of health problems during pregnancy that can affect the baby’s health.

More than 13 million women are affected by Type 2 Diabetes, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and it’s important to know that there are certain health and lifestyle factors that can put you at higher risk. These factors can include:

  • Being overweight or obese
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Lack of physical activity
  • Family history of diabetes

What are the symptoms?

Some people with Type 2 Diabetes may experience no symptoms. However, some common symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes can include:

  • Increased thirst and hunger
  • Frequent urination 
  • Extreme tiredness
  • Blurred vision
  • Cuts and bruises that are slow to heal
  • Tingling, pain or numbness in the hands or feet

Women may also experience other symptoms, including: 

  • Vaginal and oral yeast infections
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Learn More

Diabetes screenings and treatments are available through the Healthy Texas Women program. If you think you have any of the symptoms or risk factors for Type 2 Diabetes, contact your healthcare provider about getting your blood sugar checked or find a doctor using the Find a Doctor tool.