Overview of management of women with pre-existing diabetes during labour

Ideally, all maternity hospitals should have guidelines for management of pregnant women with diabetes during labour. Individualised plans should be encouraged and delivery is generally best managed in a tertiary centre, particularly for women with type 1 diabetes.

During labour, aim for tight glycaemic targets (eg blood glucose concentration 4 to 6.7 mmol/L) to reduce the risk of hyperinsulinaemia in the neonate.