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Managing gestational diabetes

When you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes there are health professionals who can help you. These include specialist doctors, diabetes educators and dietitians. They can work with you to help keep your blood glucose levels in the target range. This will provide the best outcome for both you and your baby.

You can manage gestational diabetes by:

  • following a healthy eating plan
  • doing regular physical activity
  • and monitoring blood glucose levels.

Some women will also need insulin injections or medication to help manage gestational diabetes.

Managing gestational diabetes will help keep blood glucose levels in the target range for a healthy pregnancy. Eating well and being active will also help you to manage your pregnancy weight gain.

On this page you will find information about gestational diabetes and how it is managed.

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watch gestational diabetes videos now
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Caring for yourself and your baby

Read more about managing gestational diabetes in our booklet.

Gestational diabetes videos

These videos are about gestational diabetes, how it is managed and where to get the information and support you need. Topics include healthy eating, blood glucose monitoring, physical activity and medication.

In your language

You can access a range of diabetes information in languages other than English. This includes fact sheets and booklets about gestational diabetes.

Managing gestational diabetes is a team effort, involving you, your partner, your family, and health professionals. These include specialist doctors, diabetes educators and dietitians. They can work with you to help keep your blood glucose levels within the target range. This will provide the best outcome for both you and your baby.

You can call the NDSS Helpline on 1800 637 700 to speak to one of our health professionals for information, advice or to find out what services are available in your area.

Here are some commonly asked questions about gestational diabetes. If your question is not here, ask your GP for advice or you can call the NDSS Helpline on 1800 637 700 and ask to speak with a health professional.

Read more.

Free access to diabetes programs

Learn to manage your gestational diabetes confidently with diabetes programs, available face-to-face and online. Register for a diabetes program.

Person looking at food in shops

ShopSmart

Learn how to read nutrition information, with real products to look at and compare.

Find an online program.

selecting bread

CarbSmart

This program will give you the confidence to make the best carbohydrate food choices. 

Find a program.

More information and support

Diabetes Australia acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this Country. We recognise their connection to land, waters, winds and culture. We pay the upmost respect to them, their cultures and to their Elders, past and present. We are committed to improving health outcomes for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people affected by diabetes and those at risk.

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