"*" indicates required fields 1Start here234567891011 Are you living with diabetes and thinking about becoming pregnant? It is recommended that you start planning and preparing for pregnancy at least 3 to 6 months before you start trying for a baby. This checklist is designed to help you get ready and only takes a few minutes. You can do this online or download a one-page checklist. The best preparation for a healthy pregnancy starts with getting the right information and advice before you become pregnant. At the end of the checklist you will be able to see what you need to do to prepare for pregnancy. Print the checklist and discuss it with your doctor or diabetes health professional. The information in this checklist is a general guide only. Talk to your health professionals for individualised advice on pregnancy and diabetes. * indicates required fields Contraception It is important to use contraception until you are ready to start trying for a baby. Some methods of contraception are more reliable than others. Talk to your doctor about the most reliable contraception that may be suitable for you.Are you currently using contraception to prevent becoming pregnant before you are ready?* Yes No General pregnancy advice Before becoming pregnant there are a number of general health checks that you need. Your doctor can advise you about blood tests, vaccinations and nutrient supplements needed before pregnancy.Have you spoken to your doctor for general pregnancy planning advice?* Yes No Diabetes in pregnancy specialists When planning a pregnancy, you will benefit from the support of a team of health professionals, including specialist doctors and diabetes health professionals. If you are not already seeing these health professionals, ask your general practitioner for a referral. If you live in a rural or remote area, ask your GP about Telehealth or shared care with a major hospital.Are you currently seeing health professionals who specialise in pregnancy and diabetes?* Yes No Blood glucose levels Blood glucose levels in the target range before you become pregnant and during the early stages of pregnancy reduce the risk of health problems for you and your baby. Your HbA1c should be in the recommended range before you start trying for a baby. Aim for an HbA1c of 6.5% (48 mmol/mol) or less before pregnancy (or as close to this target as possible, depending on your risk of hypoglycaemia). Discuss your individual blood glucose targets with your diabetes health professionals.In the last 3 months was your HbA1c 6.5% (48 mmol/mol) or less?* Yes No Diabetes management Your diabetes health professionals can help you with managing your diabetes to prepare for pregnancy. Make an appointment 3 to 6 months before you start trying for a baby.Have you had a review of your diabetes management to find out what you need to do to prepare for pregnancy?* Yes No Medication Not all medications have been shown to be safe to use during pregnancy. Ask your doctor to check all the medications you are currently taking to see if they are safe to use. This includes those prescribed by your doctor as well as those bought over the counter from your pharmacy or supermarket.Have you had all of your medications reviewed by your doctor to see if they are safe to take during pregnancy?* Yes No Folic acid (folate) Folic acid can help reduce the risk of certain birth defects. When you have diabetes, you are recommended to have a higher dose of folic acid than other women. Start taking high dose folic acid every day, ideally 3 months before becoming pregnant. Your doctor will recommend you take half to one 5 mg tablet, depending on other supplements you are taking.Have you started taking a high dose folic acid supplement (2.5 mg to 5 mg per day)?* Yes No Diabetes-related complications screening Diabetes-related complications can increase the risk of having other health problems during pregnancy. Before you become pregnant, have a full complications screening (eyes, kidneys, nerves) have a dental check and your blood pressure checked.Have you had a full complications screen and a dental check in the last 6-12 months, and a blood pressure check in the last 3 months?* Yes No Healthy weight (optional) Being a healthy weight before pregnancy can reduce your risk of health problems during pregnancy. If you are overweight, losing some weight before you become pregnant is recommended. Eating well and regular physical activity can help you manage your weight.How tall are you (cm)?Please enter a number greater than or equal to 0.How much do you weigh (kg)?Please enter a number greater than or equal to 0.This field is hidden when viewing the formYour BMI score is {all_fields}
