Gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) occurs during pregnancy and is diagnosed when higher than normal blood glucose levels first appear [1]. It usually goes away when the baby is born however it can return in later pregnancies [2]. There is also an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes for the mother and child in the future [3]. GDM is the fastest growing type of diabetes in Australia [1].

GDM can often be managed with healthy eating, exercise and blood glucose monitoring. For some women, medications and/or insulin therapy may be required [2].