When you have diabetes during pregnancy

If you have gestational diabetes, you may have some concerns and worries.

• When untreated, gestational diabetes can be serious.
• When treated, complications can be managed and prevented.

This manual can help you understand what’s happening to your body, how gestational diabetes is affecting you and your baby, and how it can be controlled.

For many women, gestational diabetes can be managed by

• following a meal plan
• exercising as recommended
• minimizing stress
• monitoring blood glucose levels

Some women also need to have insulin injections.

You're not alone

Remember, many women with gestational diabetes have given birth to healthy babies. Many people are ready to support you.

Have your health care provider give you the names and phone numbers of people who can help. Write this information on the resource worksheet.

Resource information worksheet

Forms and worksheets

My meal plan

Examples of carbohydrate choices

Checking and recording blood glucose levels

Stress worksheet