Gestational diabetes (GDM) is a type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy as a result of hormonal changes that block the action of the woman's insulin. It is the fastest growing type of diabetes in Australia.

Women are tested for gestational diabetes at about 24–28 weeks. If you are in a high risk category, testing may occur earlier.

You don't have to have a risk factor to develop gestational diabetes.

A diagnosis can be very upsetting, but it's important to remember that it wasn't anything you did or ate that caused it. It's not your fault. Most women will have a normal pregnancy and a normal delivery.

The good news is that for the majority of women, the diabetes goes away after baby is born. In some women this may not happen and they will be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. While gestational diabetes resolves for most women after birth, having GDM is an indication that type 2 diabetes may develop later in life.

Who is at increased risk?

Women at increased risk of developing gestational diabetes include those who:

• have had GDM in a previous pregnancy
• have previously given birth to a large baby (weighing more than 4.5kg)
• have a family history of type 2 diabetes
• have previously had high blood glucose levels
• have a mother or sister who has had gestational diabetes
• are aged over 40 years
• are above the healthy weight range for their height
• have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
• are First Nations women
• are from African, Chinese, Hispanic, Melanesian, Middle Eastern, Polynesian, South Asian, Southeast Asian or South American backgrounds
• take anti-psychotic or steroid medications

How is gestational diabetes diagnosed?

Gestational diabetes is diagnosed using an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). A sugary drink is given after fasting overnight and blood glucose levels are measured before the drink and at 1 and 2 hours. If your blood glucose level is above the normal range, it means you have gestational diabetes.

How is it managed?

You will be given a lot of help and support, as it is important to ensure you deliver a healthy weight baby. Management includes good nutrition with a focus on the amount of carbohydrate eaten, regular exercise, and blood glucose testing.

As a Credentialled Diabetes Educator, I am part of the team that will support you through your pregnancy. Other health professionals involved in your care may include endocrinologists, obstetricians, accredited practising dietitians, accredited exercise physiologists, GPs, and midwives.

I will teach you everything you need to know about blood glucose testing, exercise, and diet. Some women may need medication (metformin) and/or insulin injections to help manage gestational diabetes. I provide education on insulin injection technique and advise on insulin dose adjustments.

Telehealth consultations are a great option for mothers-to-be who are still working — one less appointment you need to take time off for.

Medicare rebates

You may be eligible for a Medicare rebate for consultations with a Credentialled Diabetes Educator. Ask your GP about a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan or Team Care Arrangement, which can provide rebates for up to five allied health visits per calendar year. Your GP or obstetrician can refer you as part of your gestational diabetes care team.

For fee information, please visit the Fees page.

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