Gestational Diabetes can occur during pregnancy and usually goes away once your baby has been born. It is diagnosed by a routine Oral Glucose Tolerance Test at some point between weeks 24 and 28 of pregnancy.

Being diagnosed with gestational diabetes can be overwhelming, but there is support available to help you learn about what gestational diabetes is and how you can manage it. You will need to monitor your blood glucose levels and try to keep them within a certain range. Your medical team will let you know what your targets are and can answer any other questions you have. You may need to review the amount and type of carbohydrate foods you are eating to help you stay in your target ranges. Being physically active in a way that suits you can also help you stay well during pregnancy.

If you have been diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes you can register with the NDSS to gain access to a variety of information and support services, as well as diabetes related products at subsidised prices.

Gestational Diabetes can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. You might like to register for our free online education program Baby Steps. Baby Steps recognises there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to life after gestational diabetes. This program will inform, inspire, and motivate you as you work towards making small changes that will have a big impact on your long-term health—with the ultimate goal of decreasing your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes WA can support you to self-manage your diabetes through the following ways:

• Call the Diabetes WA Helpline for information and support on 1300 001 880
• Read more about Gestational Diabetes
• Register with the NDSS
• Register to access the online Baby Steps program
• Attend a diabetes self-management program
• Country WA Residents only – book an appointment with a credentialled diabetes educator or dietitian