Diabetes in pregnancy: The midwifery role in management

Although the primary focus of midwifery is on uncomplicated pregnancy, all midwives must screen for and, in some cases, comanage the care of women with diabetes mellitus and gestational diabetes. This article will review the types of diabetes, implications for preconceptional and pregnancy care, the changing recommendations relative to diabetes in pregnancy, and the role of the midwife in providing antepartal and intrapartal care for women with diabetes in collaboration with other health care professionals and in accordance with the philosophy and standards of the American College of Nurse-Midwives. A specific case study will highlight the role of the midwife, with an overall focus on medical consultation, collaboration, and referral, as well as client involvement in the planning of care. J Midwifery Womens Health 2000;45:472-80