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Are you thinking about starting a family?
This leaflet has six important steps to help you stay healthy and give your baby the best start.
Most women with diabetes have healthy pregnancies and babies. But diabetes can increase the risk of serious problems for you and your baby.
The first 6 weeks of pregnancy are very important for your baby’s development.
If you want to have a baby, it’s important to look after yourself for your baby’s health and your own long-term health.
Ideally, see your GP or diabetes team 6–12 months before stopping contraception for advice and care.
If pregnancy is not planned, there is a 1 in 10 chance of serious problems like:
- miscarriage
- pre-eclampsia
- preterm labour
- stillbirth
- heart or other defects
If you plan your pregnancy with your health team, the risk drops to 1 in 50.
- Plan ahead - make an appointment with your GP. You will be referred to your diabetes team for advice and support.
- Control blood sugar - test before and 1–2 hours after meals and before bed. Aim for HbA1c close to 48mmols.
- Take folic acid - start 5mg folic acid 3 months before pregnancy to help prevent birth defects. You need a prescription.
- Review your medicines - some medicines are not safe in early pregnancy. Your doctor will check and change them if needed.
- Eat well and check weight - see a dietitian to reach a healthy weight and learn about good nutrition before and during pregnancy.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking - talk to your healthcare team for help. The Department of Health advises no alcohol during pregnancy.
If you are pregnant and have diabetes, contact your GP or diabetes team as soon as possible. They will:
- make an urgent referral to the maternity department. You should get an appointment within 1–2 weeks.
- give you a prescription for 5mg folic acid.
- review your medicines to make sure they are safe for pregnancy.
Start testing your blood sugar
You will need to check your blood sugar:
- before meals
- 1 hour after meals
- before bed
This helps your diabetes team adjust your medication safely.
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Maternity service.
About this information
Service:
Maternity
Reference:
M/023
Approval date:
1 March 2026
Review date:
1 March 2029
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.