Gestational Diabetes & Breastfeeding: Tips for pregnant women who plan to breastfeed after gestational diabetes diagnosis
- jaimiezaki
- Apr 4
- 4 min read
Hey there, mama! If you've just found out you have gestational diabetes and you're planning to breastfeed, take a deep breath – you've got this! While it might feel like a lot to handle right now, I'm here to walk you through everything you need to know about managing gestational diabetes and giving your little one the best start through breastfeeding.
How Does Gestational Diabetes Impact Your Breastfeeding Journey?
Let's talk about what gestational diabetes (GDM) means for you and your baby. Sure, it's not what any of us hope for during pregnancy, but it's more common than you might think! When GDM isn't managed well, it can lead to:
-A bigger baby (which could mean pressure for an induction or C-section)
Polyamniohydrosis
Your sweet little one having low blood sugar after birth which can lead to pressure to use formula
But here's the good news: with some simple strategies, you can totally handle this! Plus, breastfeeding can actually help both you and your baby stay healthier in the long run.
Can You Successfully Breastfeed with Gestational Diabetes?
Get ready for some exciting news! Breastfeeding isn't just possible with gestational diabetes – it's actually super beneficial! Here's why:
It helps lower your chances of getting Type 2 diabetes later (win!)
It helps your blood sugar get back to normal after birth
Your baby gets the perfect nutrition they need
That precious skin-to-skin time helps regulate your baby's blood sugar
Managing Gestational Diabetes While Preparing to Breastfeed
Managing gestational diabetes during pregnancy doesn't have to be complicated. Here are some mom-tested tips that really work:
Eating for Better Blood Sugar
How you nourish your body MATTERS! Diet-controlled gestational diabetes decreases the likelihood of blood sugar complications in your newborn after birth. The food choices you make during pregnancy will influence your baby's blood sugar after birth. Here are some simple tips:
Increase fiber by eating more vegetables (and yes, even fruit!), and whole grains
Pair carbohydrates with proteins
Stay hydrated!
Exercise to reduce blood sugar
Exercise can help regulate your blood sugar. Simple exercise like going for walks after eating or these simple exercises designed for pregnancy & postpartum can have a positive impact on your blood sugar management.
Preparing for Breastfeeding During Pregnancy
As you get closer to meeting your little one, here's what you can do:
Understand your options for blood sugar management without formula
Colostrum, successful breastfeeding, glucose gel that goes between baby's cheek and gumline
Learn how to get a GOOD LATCH from the start to ensure efficient colostrum intake
Prenatal Colostrum Collection is a good insurance plan for ensuring your have expressed milk to turn to before formula
How to Start Breastfeeding Successfully with Gestational Diabetes
The moment you meet your baby is so special, and it's also important for getting breastfeeding off to a great start.
Here's what you might want to try:
1. Snuggle up with that skin-to-skin contact right away
2. Start breastfeeding as soon as you and baby are ready
3. Let your nurses know your feeding plans
4. Keep baby close – it helps with milk production and bonding!
Common Breastfeeding Challenges for Moms with Gestational Diabetes
Long-term Effects of Gestational Diabetes
After your baby arrives, your gestational diabetes will likely say goodbye, but following up with your doctor a few weeks postpartum is really important because gestational diabetes puts you at higher risk for more severe gestational diabetes in future pregnancies, and type 2 diabetes. Gestational Diabetes can also put your baby at higher risk of Type 2 Diabetes in the future, as can formula usage. But breastfeeding reduces the risk of Type 2 Diabetes for both you and your baby. Continuing the healthy lifestyle habits beyond pregnancy is critical for ensuring long term wellness for your whole family.
Remember, having gestational diabetes doesn't mean you can't have an amazing breastfeeding journey with your little one. Take it one day at a time, celebrate your wins (big and small!), and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
Every mom's journey is different, and that's perfectly okay! Whether you're dealing with gestational diabetes for the first time or you've been here before, you're stronger than you know. With some preparation, support, and a whole lot of love, you can give your baby the beautiful gift of breastfeeding while taking great care of yourself too.
Jaimie Zaki is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and mom of 5! Jaimie has volunteered as a La Leche League Leader, worked as a nurse, doula, and birth photographer, and is the host of the Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast and founder of the Confident MamaBear Society. Jaimie provides holistic breastfeeding advice for pregnant & new moms, helping them overcome unexpected latching trouble and milk supply issues. She empowers mothers to make informed decisions from a place of confidence and intuition.
Breastfeeding Resources Available:
1:1 Breastfeeding Support (Virtual)
Guest: Nurse Sara Alayev, RN , the @gestational.diabetes.nurse on Instagram joins the Breastfeeding WIth Confidence Podcast to discuss breastfeeding after gestational diabetes. Learn more about Sara and how she helps moms with Gestational Diabetes here.