Screening for gestational diabetes
You may be offered a glucose tolerance test (GTT) to screen for gestational diabetes if you have certain risk factors. The timing of this test will depend on the risk factors. However, most commonly it is done between 24-28 weeks of pregnancy.
Risk factors include:
- First degree relative with diabetes – Mother, father, brother, sister or child
- Gestational diabetes diagnosed in a previous pregnancy
- Raised Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or more
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Ethnic background with a high prevalence of diabetes
- Previous baby weighing 4.5kg or more
- Previous still birth
- Become symptomatic of diabetes during pregnancy or develop sugar in your urine
- Findings from a recent ultrasound scan
Diabetes clinic
Diabetes antenatal clinic is led by doctors who specialise in both pregnancy and diabetes.
There are several diabetes clinics held throughout the week. They are all located in the Antenatal Clinic on Level 4 of the Leazes Wing.
- Gestational diabetes clinics are held on a Monday and a Thursday
- Pre-existing diabetes clinics are held on a Thursday morning
A message from the team
Diabetes during pregnancy can increase risks for both you and your baby. Our specialist team is here to support you throughout your pregnancy to help keep you and your baby safe and well. It is important to follow the advice given by your diabetes and maternity team, including monitoring blood glucose levels and attending your appointments.
If you have gestational diabetes
The diabetes midwife team at the RVI will support you from diagnosis through until you deliver your baby. They can be contacted Monday to Friday, between the hours of 08:30-16:00. You can contact them to discuss your blood glucose readings, medication queries, or any concerns or questions you have about the condition.
If you have pre-existing diabetes
You will be supported by the diabetes specialist nurse throughout your pregnancy. They can be contacted through the Newcastle Diabetes Centre.
Preconception care is also available for those who have pre-existing diabetes and are planning a pregnancy. Please contact the nurse through the Newcastle Diabetes Centre.
Contact
You can contact the diabetes midwives (08.30 – 16:00) on 0191 282 9527 or by emailing: [email protected]
You can contact the diabetes specialist nurse (08:00-16:00) at Newcastle Diabetes Centre on 0191 282 3867.
For any pregnancy related, or out of hour concerns, please contact the 24 hour maternity assessment unit (MAU) on 0191 282 5748.
Useful links
NHS overview of gestational diabetes
