Ambulance 912HAP 9252
Back to all symptoms and conditions
General health information

Diabetes and pregnancy

Diabetes before or during pregnancy requires extra support to monitor glucose (blood sugar), blood pressure, kidneys, eyes and the baby's growth. Ideally, start a shared plan before conception. Never stop or change medicines or insulin yourself.

In this article
Choose which sections to read

  • Good preparation before pregnancy lowers risks, but prompt support is also useful after an unexpected positive pregnancy test.
  • Glucose readings, medicines, blood pressure, kidneys, eyes and the thyroid are assessed according to the type of diabetes.
  • Insulin requirements can change quickly during pregnancy, labour and after birth; follow only your personal plan.
  • Diabetic ketoacidosis can develop at lower glucose levels during pregnancy than outside pregnancy.
  • Severe low blood sugar, ketoacidosis, signs of pre-eclampsia and reduced movements of the baby need prompt assessment.

Your response

Two anonymous questions

Did you find what you were looking for?

Do you now have a clearer idea of your next step?

Share article

Email

Do you need a healthcare provider after reading?

Search by type of care, organisation, name or district.

Further reading

Browse A–Z
G
Gestational diabetesGestational diabetes is high blood sugar diagnosed during pregnancy and usually causes no obvious symptoms. Nutrition, safe exercise, glucose monitoring and medicines if needed reduce risks for parent and baby. Monitoring remains necessary after birth because of an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
T
Type 2 diabetesIn type 2 diabetes, the body responds less well to insulin and the pancreas may gradually become unable to make enough insulin. Lifestyle, medicines and checks of the heart, kidneys, eyes and feet are combined in a personal plan. The condition is not simply someone's own fault.
O
Obesity and pregnancyA BMI of 30 or above before or early in pregnancy increases the chance of gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, thrombosis and birth-related problems, among other things, but most pregnancies proceed without serious complications. Respectful care, extra checks and an individual plan for nutrition, movement, medicines, birth and the postnatal period help reduce risks; losing weight on your own during pregnancy is usually not the goal.