Your Gestational Diabetes Checklist: A Quick-Start Guide for a Healthy Pregnancy
Gestational diabetes (GDM) can feel overwhelming at first. But with a clear plan, a supportive care team, and a few simple habits, you can manage your health and have a healthy pregnancy.
This checklist covers everything you need to know, from getting diagnosed to daily management, preparing for delivery, and reducing your risk after pregnancy. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or just want a refresher, these action steps will help you stay informed and supported.
✅ Screening and Diagnosis
☑ Get screened between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy (earlier if high-risk)
☑ Understand the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) process
☑ Ask about early screening if you have PCOS or a history of GDM
☑ If diagnosed, schedule a follow-up appointment to create a care plan
Want to know what to expect during GDM testing? Learn how screening works and when to get tested.
✅ Nutrition & Eating Habits
☑ Eat balanced meals that include:
- Lean protein
- Fiber-rich carbs
- Healthy fats
☑ Pair carbohydrates with protein to avoid blood sugar spikes
☑ Eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day
☑ Limit added sugars and processed snacks
☑ Ask for a referral to a registered dietitian
✅ Physical Activity
☑ Move your body regularly with doctor-approved activities like:
- Walking
- Swimming
- Prenatal yoga
- Light strength training
☑ Avoid lying flat on your back after the first trimester
☑ Avoid high-impact or contact sports
☑ Talk to your doctor before starting new exercises
Get expert-backed exercise tips to stay active safely with gestational diabetes.
✅ Stress & Emotional Support
☑ Practice stress-reducing activities:
- Deep breathing
- Gentle stretching
- Journaling or mindfulness
☑ Stay connected with loved ones or a counselor
☑ Join a Meetup through DiabetesSisters for peer support
✅ Labor & Delivery
☑ Discuss delivery options with your care team — vaginal birth is often possible
☑ Ask if additional monitoring or induction is recommended
☑ Learn about newborn monitoring for low blood sugar
☑ Ask what to expect at the hospital or birth center
✅ Postpartum & Long-Term Health
☑ Breastfeed if you are able — it helps lower both you and your baby’s risk
☑ Get a follow-up glucose test 6–12 weeks after delivery
☑ Schedule yearly screenings for type 2 diabetes
☑ Continue healthy eating, exercise, and stress management
☑ Stay connected with your care team and support networks
Learn 7 simple steps to protect your health after pregnancy and lower long-term diabetes risk.
✅ Preventing Future Type 2 Diabetes
☑ Maintain a healthy weight
☑ Stay physically active
☑ Eat a consistent, nutrient-rich diet
☑ Prioritize sleep and stress management
☑ Track your blood sugar and schedule regular checkups
☑ Learn your risk factors and get informed
✅ Before Your Next Pregnancy
☑ Schedule a preconception visit
☑ Aim for an A1C below 6.5% before trying to conceive
☑ Discuss PCOS, prediabetes, or any hormonal issues with your provider
☑ Build a plan for staying healthy during early pregnancy
✅ Get Help Making a Treatment Decision
You’re not alone, and trusthworthy support is available.
The DECIDE Study can help you feel more confident about your treatment options.
When you join, you can:
- Learn about two common medications: insulin (injection) and metformin (pill)
- Share your experience through short surveys to help improve care for future families
Both medications are safe and effective. Some may experience mild side effects like low blood sugar (insulin) or brief stomach discomfort (metformin).
Your voice matters. Help shape better care for moms and babies everywhere.
Learn more and see if you’re eligible to participate in DECIDE.
✅ You Are Not Alone: Find Your Support Community
Support from people who understand what you’re going through can make a world of difference.
Join the DiabetesSisters community to:
- Attend free virtual Meetups to connect with other women managing gestational diabetes or postpartum diabetes risk
- Read helpful blogs and resources
- Ask questions and share your story in a judgment-free space
Stay empowered. Stay connected. And remember — you’ve got this.
