Most women with gestational diabetes can make it to their due dates safely and begin labor naturally. Keep in mind that just because you have gestational diabetes does not mean that you will have any change in delivery.

As your due date nears, your doctors will study your health and that of your growing baby. Then, you and the team will discuss the best time and method for delivery.

Your labor may start on its own, or you may decide to have labor induced or have a planned cesarean section (C-section). During a cesarean birth, an incision is made through the abdomen and uterus, through which the baby is removed.  Because of the surgery, your recovery time may be longer than if you delivered your baby vaginally.

No matter how you deliver your baby, your doctors will be working during labor and delivery to keep your blood glucose level under control. At the start of active labor, your insulin needs will drop. You will most likely not need any insulin during labor and for 24 to 72 hours after delivery.

Gestational diabetes puts women at higher risk than women without the condition for developing preeclampsia, late in their pregnancy. Preeclampsia is a condition related to a sudden blood pressure increase; it can be serious. The only way to cure preeclampsia is to deliver the baby; but delivery may not be the best option for your health or for the health of the baby.