If you are living with Type 2 Diabetes, your pregnancy and birth will need additional care to ensure both you and your baby are well looked after.
Things to know about Type 2 diabetes and your pregnancy
Firstly, it is the most common form of diabetes in Australia
Type 2 diabetes is around five times more common than Type 1 diabetes and can cause complications for pregnancy that you should be aware of.
It’s best to seek early care from your health team when planning a pregnancy or from the early days of confirming your pregnancy. Team based care with regular checks from your obstetrician, endocrinologist and midwife are appropriate. You may consider speaking with a diabetic educator or dietitian if you haven’t previously.
Control your diabetes as much as possible prior to your pregnancy.
Oral agents such as metformin are safe in pregnancy. However, most patients will still require insulin use during pregnancy
Early delivery is mostly around 38-39 weeks to reduce any risks for you and your unborn baby.
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Dr Peter England is an expert obstetrician and has been working as the clinical head of the pregnancy and diabetes clinic at the Royal Womens Hospital for over 20 years.
If you have Type 2 diabetes and would like to seek support for a current or future pregnancy please contact the rooms for an appointment. Reminder, personal medical advice is not provided via social media and you should speak with your doctor if you have any concerns.
Learn more about Diabetes and Pregnancy.