Gestational diabetes

What is Gestational Diabetes

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) refers to hyperglycaemia, or high blood sugars, that are first diagnosed in pregnancy.

The condition usually goes away after the baby is born. GDM will develop in approximately 10 to 14 percent of pregnant women. It usually happens between the 24th to 28th week of pregnancy and is sparked by an increase in pregnancy-related hormones that help aid your baby’s growth.

Who is most at risk for gestational diabetes?

• Women who are over 40
• Those with a family history of Type 2 diabetes
• Those above the healthy weight range or who have gained weight too rapidly in the first trimester
• Indigenous Australians
• Women of Indian, Chinese, Middle Eastern, South-East Asian, Polynesian/Melanesian or African background
• Those who have had gestational diabetes previously
• Difficulty carrying a pregnancy to term in the past
• A twin or triplet pregnancy
• Women who have had Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

How to manage GDM

The good news is that even if you have been diagnosed with GDM, with proper management, the risks are greatly reduced. We manage this with a multidisciplinary team; it involves you, your loved ones, doctor, diabetes educator and dietician.

The aim is to try and keep your blood sugars as near-to-normal as possible with healthy eating, physical activity and blood glucose monitoring.

If these tactics aren’t enough to keep your sugar levels as close to normal as possible, medication may be required. This is usually in the form of insulin.

Gestational Diabetes Clinic

At Epworth Freemasons Maternity, we have a dedicated service for women who are diagnosed with gestational diabetes. This service is available at no cost to all patients delivering at Epworth Freemasons Maternity.

If you are diagnosed, you can book into our clinic to have a personal consult with a Diabetes Educator. This can be done via your obstetrician, or you can book directly via our webpage.

This initial session will allow you to discuss any concerns and ongoing management, including any changes to your diet. You’ll also be provided with a blood glucose monitor and information to help you monitor your blood glucose.

Our Diabetes Educator is here to provide ongoing support, and answer any questions, right up until your baby arrives.

We also have an endocrinologist available, who specialises in diabetes and pregnancy. If you do need a specialist, you will be a high-priority patient and receive immediate review.

Appointments for non-Epworth patients:

We offer diabetes consultations on a paid basis to patients external to Epworth. Consultations are for 60 minutes, and non-Epworth families will be charged a fee. After your initial consultation, all subsequent appointments are free.

Contact details:

The Diabetes Clinic is open for bookings during the below times:

• Wednesday's, Thursday's and alternative Monday's
• Email: [email protected] 

Location:

Epworth Freemasons Maternity Hub
Suite 116, Level 1
320 Victoria Parade
East Melbourne VIC 3002

Appointments:

To make an appointment please book online.

Booking the Diabetes Clinic

Please click on Booking summary below to expand your clinic options.

Epworth Freemasons Maternity - Virtual Tour