Gestational Diabetes

[Emily6457]

Hi,

This is my third pregnancy (first time with Gestational Diabetes).

GD is currently controlled by Metformin (max dose) and I'm 35+ weeks pregnant. I still have one or two random high readings most days, which the diabetes team are closely monitoring.

I have a meeting next week at 36 weeks and a growth scan. I was told at this appointment that we would make a plan for early induction/csection, depending on how well the diabetes is controlled.

Does anyone know what is meant by 'well controlled'? As I said I am on medication, which is not controlling the diabetes 100%.

What would make them induce me early?

I'm quite anxious as I was hoping for a VBAC and didn't really want induction, but now I just want baby here safely with all the increased risks. Also the not knowing and being told to wait until the next appointment each time adds to my anxiety.

Just looking for other people's experiences of similar situations.

Thank you x

Hi @Emily6457. Well controlled usually means 75%+ of your readings are in target range (so I was told), but it also depends on how out of range they are. If you're getting a couple of 8+ readings after meals, they treat that differently to being over 10+, if that makes sense.

I struggled with my fasting levels, despite most of my others being ok so I understand your frustration. I was on Metformin from 36 weeks but it didn't really change my readings. I managed to push back induction until 39+6 (they wanted to induce at 39 weeks).

If you wanted to try and get closer to 40 weeks they might offer you insulin?

Sorry don’t have much on GD but wanted to say you have choices. Definitely listen and ask them questions about research etc but your body and your birth so you need to feel comfortable. Give birth like a feminist is a good read!
It does take some confidence to ask for the details of the risks and why they’re making recommendations but it will really help you feel good about whatever choice you make whether that’s waiting another few days or induction. The BRAIN acronym is a useful framework

I had GD in my last pregnancy and well controlled for me was being put on both Metformin & insulin, within a week of each other. I was induced at 37+3 with ARM & the syntocinon drip, so you can still have a vbac. I had the epidural too because I'd heard stories of drip inductions being painful and it was quite pleasant (although it took 12 hours!).
The main reason I was induced that early though was because of the GD, his growth had dropped off his curve and I'd had a couple episodes of reduced movements.