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Warning-sign checks

Gestational diabetes: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Get emergency help for confusion, fainting, a seizure, severe breathing difficulty, or inability to keep fluids down with worsening illness.

    These symptoms are uncommon but can signal severe low blood sugar, dehydration, or diabetic ketoacidosis.

    Ketoacidosis is a dangerous build-up of acids called ketones and can occur in pregnancy even when glucose is not extremely high.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek prompt same-day maternity assessment if you notice:

    • Reduced or changed fetal movement
    • A severe or persistent headache, vision changes, or pain below the ribs
    • Vaginal bleeding, leaking fluid, or signs of labour
    • Repeated low blood sugar episodes while using glucose-lowering medication
    • Fever or another illness that is affecting eating, drinking, or glucose levels
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Contact your maternity or diabetes team during routine hours if your glucose readings are repeatedly above or below the targets you were given.

    Also seek advice if you cannot follow the eating plan, are having medication problems, or are unsure how to use your glucose meter.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Gestational diabetes. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.