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Diabetes and pregnancy

Pre-existing diabetes

Women with pre-existing diabetes will receive care from a team of specialist midwives and consultants.  An individual management plan will be developed with the patient and the specialist team, including antenatal care, labour care and a postnatal care plan.

Most pregnant women with diabetes will go on to have a healthy baby, but there are some possible complications you should be aware of.

If you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, you may be at higher risk of having:

  • a large baby – which increases the risk of a difficult birth, having your labour induced or needing a caesarean section
  • a miscarriage

People with diabetes are at risk of developing problems with their eyes (diabetic retinopathy) and kidneys (diabetic nephropathy).

Some people with type 1 diabetes can develop diabetic ketoacidosis, where harmful chemicals called ketones build up in the blood.

Pregnancy can increase your risk of developing these problems or make existing ones worse.

The best way to reduce the risks to you and your baby is to ensure your diabetes is well controlled before you become pregnant.  Before you start trying for a baby, ask your GP or diabetes specialist for advice. You should be referred to a diabetic pre-conception clinic for support.

Gestational diabetes

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.

If you are diagnosed with GDM in your pregnancy, you will receive care from a team of specialist midwives and consultants.  An individual management plan will be developed with you, including antenatal care, labour care and a postnatal care plan.