Diabetes

You develop type 1 diabetes if your body is not creating enough insulin to keep blood glucose (sugar) levels in the normal range. High blood glucose can cause damage to your body over time.

Type 2 diabetes happens when your body can not use insulin properly (insulin resistance). This makes your blood glucose levels high. It is the most common form of diabetes and may be prevented by following a healthy lifestyle.

Managing your diabetes can help with your daily activities. You might need to make some lifestyle changes depending on your situation.

If you have type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes, you might develop complications. Keeping your diabetes under good control will reduce your chances of having problems.

Most pregnancies and births are uncomplicated. Your lead maternity carer (LMC) is trained to watch for any pregnancy complications, including gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes is diabetes that is diagnosed in pregnancy.

Insulin is a hormone that helps move glucose from your blood into your cells for energy. You will need to take insulin if you have diabetes because your body may not produce enough insulin or may not use it effectively. The aim is to keep your blood glucose level as close to normal as possible (4 to 8 mmol/L). Find out how to take insulin, the different ways to take it and what to do if your blood sugar levels are low.