Gestational diabetes: Resources to get you started
If you’ve just been told you have gestational diabetes (GDM), you might be feeling a bit rattled. Those early days can feel big and confusing, but once you learn the basics it all becomes a lot more manageable. This guide brings together clear, reliable resources to help you find your feet - but remember, your healthcare team will be able to provide the best advice for your needs.
Before we dive in...
💛 You didn’t cause this. GDM develops because of pregnancy hormones and how they affect insulin - not because of something you did or didn’t do.
💛 Your first couple of weeks are for learning, not perfection. So don't stress about changing everything today. Small steps are more than enough right now.
💛 This is a season, not a life sentence. GDM usually resolves after birth, and everything you learn now sets you up with skills and confidence for the rest of your pregnancy (and beyond).
Understanding gestational diabetes
Starting with understanding what’s actually happening in your body is one of the best ways to feel a little more in control and make sense of everything that follows.
'Gestational Diabetes and Me' by the NDSS
This website has short videos and practical, easy-to-understand explainers that walk you through what GDM is, why it happens, and the basics of managing it. The NDSS also offers a detailed companion PDF, Caring for Yourself and Your Baby, if you prefer a deeper read.
The role of glucose and insulin
In this clip (33:42–41:52) Jessie Inchauspé (@GlucoseGoddess) breaks down the basics of this duo in a really easy-to-follow way. While it isn’t pregnancy-specific, it’s a great foundation for understanding what changes during gestation.
Food and nutrition guidance
Use these as a starting point for balanced eating with GDM. Your dietitian or educator can tailor things to you.
'Healthy Eating for Gestational Diabetes' by Diabetes Australia
This guide gives a clear overview of balanced eating for blood sugar management, with meal examples and practical tips. Read the guide →
Robyn Compton
Robyn is an Australian-based dietitian sharing approachable, real-world advice via her Instagram: @gestationaldiabetes_dietitian
Leslee Flannery
Lesley is a US-based nutritionist who shares on everyday meals and snack ideas for steady energy via her Instagram: @gestational.diabetes.nutrition
'Real Food for Gestational Diabetes' by Lily Nichols
Lily Nichols is a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Educator. Her book 'Real Food for Gestational Diabetes' that provides a nutrient-dense, lower-carb approach with meal plans and recipes. View the book →
What your healthcare team will organize next
In Australia, the steps after a GDM diagnosis usually look like this:
📞 You’ll hear from a diabetes educator, midwife, or specialist nurse. They’ll either talk you through the basics one-on-one, or book you into an education session.
🩸 You’ll be given a glucometer. This is the tool you'll use to check your blood sugar levels (so you don't need to buy one yourself). You’ll be shown exactly how to use it during your education session.
📝 Your healthcare team will register you with the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS). Registration gives you access to subsidised blood glucose test strips and free insulin pen needles (if you need them). To access the subsidised pricing, you’ll need your NDSS number - this will be emailed to you shortly after registration, and a physical card will arrive later. Just show the number to your pharmacist to access NDSS pricing.
🌍 If you’re outside Australia: Many countries follow a similar process with their own diabetes register. Your healthcare team will be able to provide the most accurate details for your region.
Podcasts and expert voices
The Gestie Podcast
Hosted by Gestie founder Celia, this show brings together real stories and expert insights to cover the full landscape of gestational diabetes - from food and blood sugar to mindset, birth, and beyond - guided by someone who’s been there herself.
The Glucose Goddess Podcast
Not GDM-specific, but a great listen for understanding blood sugar in plain English. Jessie’s episodes make science feel surprisingly easy (and actually fun) to understand.
The Midwives' Cauldron
This podcast features a double episode feature where Katie and Dr Rachel unpack the evidence and guidelines around gestational diabetes in their signature style.
Online communities
Connecting with others who get it can make such a difference - whether it’s swapping snack ideas, sharing a win, or just knowing you’re not alone. Here are a few larger Facebook groups you might like to explore:
- Gestational Diabetes Australian Support
-
Gestational Diabetes Support Group (USA/International)
- Gestational Diabetes UK
- Gestational Diabetes Canada
-
Gestational Diabetes in Pregnancy (International)
Helplines
Sometimes you just need to hear a real voice. National diabetes helplines can be a great resource if you feel unsure or need extra support.
Australia - National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) Helpline
1800 637 700
United Kingdom - Diabetes UK Helpline
0345 123 2399
United States - American Diabetes Association (ADA) Center for Information
1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383)
Canada - Diabetes Canada Information & Support Line
1-800-BANTING (1-800-226-8464)
One last thing
Be gentle with yourself. You don’t have to do everything perfectly from day one - most women find their rhythm slowly. Listen to your body, take it step by step, and trust that it will start to feel more familiar 🫶
If you would like to make an addition to this page to help future women in your shoes, please send your suggestions to team@heygestie.com.