Pregnancy planning checklist 1Start here23456789101112Preview Are you a woman with diabetes thinking about having a baby? The best preparation for a healthy pregnancy starts with getting the right information and advice before you become pregnant. It is recommended that you start planning and preparing for pregnancy at least 3–6 months before you start trying for a baby. This checklist is designed to help you get ready and only takes a few minutes to complete. 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. About your diabetes Women with type 1 or type 2 diabetes need to plan and prepare for pregnancy. By answering the question below, the pregnancy planning checklist will be individualised to the type of diabetes you have.What type of diabetes do you have?* Type 1 diabetes Type 2 diabetes 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. Ask your doctor about the best type of contraception for you.Are you currently using contraception to prevent an unplanned pregnancy?* Yes No General pregnancy advice Before becoming pregnant there are a number of general health checks that all women need. Your GP can advise you about blood tests, vaccinations and nutrient supplements needed before pregnancy.Have you spoken to your GP for general pregnancy planning advice?* Yes No Diabetes in pregnancy specialists When planning a pregnancy women with diabetes benefit from the support of a team of health professionals, including specialist doctors and diabetes health professionals. If you're not already seeing these health professionals, ask your GP for a referral. If you live in a regional area, ask your GP about Telehealth or shared care with a major hospital.Are you currently seeing health professionals specialised 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 mother and baby. Your HbA1c should be in the recommended range before you start trying for a baby. Aim for an HbA1c of 6.5% (48mmol/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.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 mother and baby. Your HbA1c should be in the recommended range before you start trying for a baby. Aim for an HbA1c of 6.5% (48mmol/mol) or less before pregnancy. Discuss your individual blood glucose targets with your diabetes health professionals.In the past 3 months was your HbA1c 6.5% (48mmol/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. Women with diabetes are recommended to have a higher dose of folic acid than other women. Start taking high dose folic acid every day, ideally three months before becoming pregnant. Your doctor will recommend you take half to one 5mg tablet, depending on other supplements you are taking.Have you started taking a high dose folic acid supplement (2.5mg to 5mg 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, you need to have a full complications screening (eyes, kidneys, nerves) and have your blood pressure checked.Have you had a full complications screening in the past 6-12 months and your blood pressure checked in the past 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)?How much do you weigh (kg)?HiddenYour BMI score is {all_fields}
