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For women with type 2 diabetes

Blood glucose levels and breastfeeding

If you are taking insulin, you may need less in the first few days after birth, but you still need to do frequent blood glucose monitoring so you can adjust your insulin doses.

At this stage, it is recommended to keep blood glucose levels between 5–10mmol/L, not lower, to reduce your risk of hypos.

It can be difficult to keep blood glucose levels within the recommended range while breastfeeding, so contact your diabetes health professionals for advice on medication or support to adjust your insulin doses. Talk to your dietitian about your diet and nutritional needs for breastfeeding.

Blood glucose levels may drop rapidly during and following breastfeeding, just like with any other physical activity. If you are taking insulin, be prepared to treat hypos while you are breastfeeding. Some women find that their blood glucose levels can fall by 3–5mmol/L during a breastfeed, so it is important to have hypo treatment within reach while you are breastfeeding.

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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