Support women with diabetes to prepare for pregnancy

Healthy blood glucose levels before pregnancy are important to help prepare a woman for a safe and healthy pregnancy. Healthy blood glucose levels can also reduce baby’s risk of future health problems, including type 2 diabetes.

Risks of high blood glucose levels

High blood glucose levels before and during pregnancy can increase risk of pre-eclampsia, miscarriage, and difficulties during birth. They can also increase baby’s future risk of diabetes, obesity and other chronic diseases.

Ways to help women before pregnancy

Health workers can support women with diabetes to manage their diabetes before pregnancy by:

• Supporting women to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Encourage all women of childbearing age to discuss contraception options with their doctor if they are not planning a pregnancy.
• Discuss the importance of having healthy blood glucose levels before pregnancy to support mother and baby’s health now and in the future.
• Encourage women to link in with diabetes health professionals to get the support they need when planning a pregnancy.

Changing the future for your clients

Women with diabetes can have a safe and healthy pregnancy with the right planning and care.

Achieving healthy blood glucose levels for women before and during pregnancy reduces complications.

This is a time where we, as health care professionals, really can change the future. Find out more about diabetes care before pregnancy here.