Gestational diabetes - What happens next?

For baby

After you have had your baby, the hospital will check to make sure that their blood glucose does not go too low (neonatal hypoglycaemia) which can happen in the first few hours after birth. You may have to stay in the hospital for longer than you had planned so that your baby can be monitored. 

For mum

For most women their blood glucose levels return to normal after labour, so if you’re taking diabetes medication, this will be stopped immediately after birth.

However, in some cases, pregnancy uncovers existing diabetes, so some women will need to continue to receive treatment for their condition.

Having gestational diabetes increases your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life; therefore, you are also at increased risk of developing gestational diabetes in a future pregnancy, it is important to continue to follow a healthy diet and lifestyle and aim to maintain a healthy weight after the birth of your baby.

You should attend your surgery to have a 6-week fasting blood glucose test and possibly a 12-week HbA1c test.

It is important that you have an annual HbA1c test to screen for diabetes now you have had gestational diabetes.

Speak with your health care team to see what support is available to you. These tests will be performed at your GP surgery.

It is very important that you book these tests soon after you have had your baby.

What you can do to reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes

1. Have your blood glucose levels tested before you leave hospital.
2. Arrange a blood test for diabetes at your six-week postnatal check you may also be asked to book a test for 3 months post-delivery to have a blood test called an HbA1c preformed.
3. Look out for any symptoms of diabetes and arrange to see your GP or practice nurse. These may include: passing urine more often, especially at night; extreme tiredness; increased thirst; unexplained weight loss; and slow healing of cuts and wounds. 
4. Arrange to have an annual test for diabetes via your GP or nurse.
5. Continue with healthy eating and regular physical activity.
6. Take steps to make sure you manage your weight. Try to stay a healthy weight for your height.
7. Get support if you need to lose weight – ask to see a dietitian or join a weight management group.
8. Take up the offer of referral to the National Diabetes Prevention Programme as this can give you support and advice for life and reduce your risk of becoming a Type 2 diabetic in later life, your GP can refer you after you have had your baby. 
9. During future pregnancies, let your healthcare team know that you have a history of gestational diabetes. You will be given a blood glucose meter to test at home, and an earlier test to check whether you have developed it again.