Diabetes in pregnancy

Gestational diabetes is high blood sugar (glucose) that develops during pregnancy and usually disappears after giving birth.

It can happen at any stage of pregnancy, but is more common in the second or third trimester.

It happens when your body cannot produce enough insulin – a hormone that helps control blood sugar levels – to meet your extra needs in pregnancy.

Gestational diabetes can cause problems for you and your baby during pregnancy and after birth. But the risks can be reduced if the condition is detected early and well managed.

Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) and what happens next

Testing your blood sugar at home

Dietary advice for gestational diabetes

Patient information leaflets

• Carbohydrate snacks of 10g or less
• A guide to starting insulin for women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
• Dietary advice for women with gestational diabetes
• Antenatal colosctrum collection
• Gestational Diabetes and using the GDmHealth app

Further information and support

• NHS website
• Diabetes – the basics
• Diabetes – eating with gestational diabetes

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