Diabetes and Pregnancy

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is high blood sugar (glucose) that develops during pregnancy and usually disappears after giving birth. It can happen at any stage of pregnancy, but is more common in the second or third trimester. It affects up to 1 in 8 women in pregnancy in Ireland.

Our extended team are available to support you through your GDM diagnosis and to ensure you understand and feel comfortable in knowing how to manage your diabetes. Our multi-disciplinary team includes your doctors, dieticians and diabetes midwife specialists.

You can also find many of the resources you need below:

This recipe book is an excellent resource for anyone who is pregnant with an interest in healthy eating. While it is specifically designed for those that are trying to maintain a low GI diet, these recipes are suitable for all the family to enjoy. If you have further questions on diet you can phone the dietitian - see numbers below.

This video What Happens in Gestational Diabetes? will help explain to you what is happening when you develop Gestational Diabetes Mellitus.
Here is a guide to managing your diet when you have gestational diabetes mellitus. The guide includes a meal plan and snack ideas. If you have further questions on diet you can phone the dietitian - see numbers below.

This video Using Your Accu-Chek Aviva Meter helps explain how to set up and use this type of blood glucose meter. You can also download this 'quick guide'.

This video Using Your Accu-Chek Mobile Meter helps explain how to set up and use this different kind of blood glucose meter. This video Performing a Blood Glucose Test shows you how to use the meter to do the blood glucose test.
You might be encouraged to collect colostrum before your baby is born. Find out more about Colostrum Harvesting