Pregnancy and diabetes
Types of diabetes in pregnancy
There are different types of diabetes in pregnancy:
- Becoming pregnant when you have pre-existing type 1 or type 2 diabetes
- Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) occurs when diabetes is first diagnosed in pregnancy. It results in higher than normal blood glucose levels and is likely to resolve after baby is born.
Becoming pregnant when you have diabetes
If you are living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes it is very important to plan a pregnancy.
Planning creates an opportunity to give yourself and your baby the best possible start. Begin with a review of your diabetes care and general health. Contact your healthcare team at least three to six months before trying for a baby. This is known as pre-conception care. Your GP can arrange this.
Once you are pregnant, care from a specialised pregnancy and diabetes service will support you on your journey to motherhood. If you live in a regional area, ask your GP about Telehealth or shared care with a major hospital.
Diabetes does complicate pregnancy for both you and your baby. You can increase your chances of having a healthy baby by maintaining blood glucose levels within your individualised target range before and during pregnancy (make sure to discuss this with your diabetes health care team).
Possible complications
- Miscarriage
- Abnormal development of your baby
- Pre-eclampsia
- A big or small baby
- Worsening of any pre-existing diabetes complications
Women living with diabetes can have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. Use our helpful Pregnancy Planning Checklist if you are thinking about pregnancy to start the conversation with your healthcare team at your next appointment.
For more information
Pregnancy and diabetes website
A website for women with type 1 or type 2 diabetes dedicated to pregnancy and diabetes information.
Pregnancy and diabetes information events
Find out more about our information events for women with type 1 or type 2 diabetes and partners preparing for a healthy pregnancy.
For information about gestational diabetes.
