Postpartum discharge from hospital for women with pre-existing diabetes

Before a woman with pre-existing diabetes is discharged from hospital postpartum:

• discuss future pregnancy plans and contraception options, and organise a follow-up appointment for contraception advice
• provide a comprehensive, written diabetes management plan that includes:
  • appropriate timing and frequency of blood glucose concentration monitoring
  • target blood glucose concentrations
  • contact details for the multidisciplinary diabetes team in case any problems arise, and clear criteria for when to seek assistance
  • follow-up appointments for diabetes management review
  • dietary advice for breastfeeding
  • advice about the increased risk of hypoglycaemia in the postpartum period, particularly in relation to driving
• arrange follow-up management of pre-existing or new complications of diabetes.

At the time of writing, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) or flash glucose monitoring is subsidised on the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) for women with type 1 diabetes for up to 3 months after their due date.