Pregnancy is a transformative journey, and for those diagnosed with diabetes—whether preexisting Type 1 or 2, or gestational diabetes—it can come with unique challenges. But managing blood sugar doesn’t have to mean sacrificing an empowered birth experience.
In this episode, I sit down with Megan Peasley, a certified doula, birth photographer, and childbirth educator, to discuss her personal experience navigating pregnancy with Type 1 diabetes and her advice for individuals facing a gestational diabetes diagnosis.
In this episode, we cover:
✔️ The differences between Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes in pregnancy
✔️ The emotional impact of a gestational diabetes diagnosis and how to navigate it
✔️ Nutrition strategies to stabilize blood sugar levels without restrictive dieting
✔️ How to advocate for yourself when discussing induction and birth options with your provider
✔️ The biggest myths about diabetes and birth—and the truth behind them
Listen to the episode now:
Pregnancy is a transformative journey filled with excitement, anticipation, and, at times, unexpected challenges. For those diagnosed with diabetes—whether preexisting Type 1 or 2, or gestational diabetes—understanding how to manage blood sugar levels while advocating for a positive birth experience can feel overwhelming.
In a recent episode of The Mindful Room Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Megan Peasley, a certified doula, birth photographer, and childbirth educator, to discuss her personal experience navigating pregnancy with Type 1 diabetes and her advice for individuals facing a gestational diabetes diagnosis.
Understanding Diabetes in Pregnancy
Megan has lived with Type 1 diabetes since she was eight years old. Unlike Type 2 or gestational diabetes, Type 1 is an autoimmune disease that requires full insulin dependency. As a researcher-turned-doula, Megan’s experiences navigating high-risk pregnancy inspired her to help others feel empowered in their journeys.
Pregnancy naturally induces insulin resistance due to hormonal changes, which is why some people develop gestational diabetes even without prior risk factors. Gestational diabetes typically develops later in pregnancy (around the second or third trimester) and differs from preexisting diabetes in that those diagnosed with it still produce their own insulin but may need additional support in regulating blood sugar levels.
The Emotional Impact of a Gestational Diabetes Diagnosis
Receiving a gestational diabetes diagnosis can be shocking, especially for those who have never had health concerns related to blood sugar before. Many of my clients initially experience fear, guilt, and confusion, often asking themselves, What did I do wrong?
Megan reassures her clients that gestational diabetes is not a reflection of poor health choices but rather the result of how an individual’s placenta interacts with insulin production. She highlights the importance of dismantling stigma, explaining that genetic predisposition plays a major role and that managing gestational diabetes is more about adjustment rather than blame.
Practical Steps for Managing Diabetes During Pregnancy
1. Seek Education & SupportConnecting with others who have experienced gestational or preexisting diabetes can be invaluable. Support groups, both in-person and online, provide a sense of community and practical advice. Additionally, evidence-based books like Real Food for Gestational Diabetes by Lily Nichols offer nutritional guidance specific to pregnancy.
2. Nutrition & Blood Sugar BalanceContrary to common misconceptions, managing gestational diabetes isn’t just about cutting out carbs or increasing insulin. It’s about balance. Megan advises clients to pair carbohydrates with proteins and healthy fats to stabilize blood sugar levels. Small, intentional changes—such as reducing simple sugars, incorporating fiber-rich foods, and spacing out meals—can have a significant impact. Working with a nutritionist who specializes in this can be extremely helpful.
3. Advocate for Yourself in Medical SettingsA gestational diabetes diagnosis often comes with increased medical interventions, including frequent monitoring and discussions about induction. Megan emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making. If an OB or midwife suggests induction at 39 weeks, for example, I encourage my clients to ask:
What are the actual statistics and risks?
Is my baby healthy?
Can I have more time to think about this decision?
Often, risks associated with waiting (such as potential macrosomia or high birth weight) are exaggerated, while the risks of induction (such as increased likelihood of cesarean birth) are minimized. Understanding these nuances helps individuals feel confident in their choices.
4. Find a Care Provider Who ListensCare provider approaches vary significantly. Some hospitals routinely push for early induction based solely on diabetes status, while others follow evidence-based guidelines that allow pregnancy to progress naturally if blood sugar is well-controlled. If your provider isn’t engaging in a shared decision-making approach, switching to a more supportive practice is a valid and sometimes necessary choice.
Dispelling Myths About Diabetes and Birth
Misconceptions about diabetes in pregnancy can lead to unnecessary fear and interventions. Here are some common myths Megan and I discussed:
✅ Myth: Everyone with diabetes has a big baby.Truth: While high blood sugar levels can contribute to fetal growth, genetics play a major role. Well-managed blood sugar levels often result in typical-sized babies.
✅ Myth: If you have gestational diabetes, you must be induced early.Truth: ACOG (The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) supports allowing pregnancy to continue to 41 weeks if blood sugar is controlled and there are no complications.
✅ Myth: A diabetes diagnosis means an automatic C-section.Truth: Many individuals with diabetes give birth vaginally, especially when they receive balanced care that takes their full medical picture into account. Research does show that if your provider suspects your baby is big they may be more likely to recommend a cesarean. More details on navigating a big baby diagnosis here.
Empowerment Through Education & Support
Megan’s journey from researcher to doula highlights the importance of self-education and advocacy. By blending mindfulness, science, and evidence-based birth practices, she helps birthing people feel grounded in their decision-making process.
For those navigating a gestational diabetes diagnosis, here are the key takeaways:
✔️ You didn’t cause this, and you are not alone. ✔️ Thoughtful dietary adjustments can have a significant positive impact. ✔️ Your birth choices matter—ask questions and take time before making decisions.
✔️ Surround yourself with a supportive care team, including doulas, dietitians, and diabetes specialists.
If you’re looking for additional support, Megan hosts community gatherings and childbirth education classes in the Greater Boston area. You can find her on Instagram at @IlluminatedBirthDoula or visit her space, Illuminated Birth & Company, for in-person workshops and support circles.
Managing diabetes during pregnancy doesn’t mean sacrificing an empowered birth experience. With the right resources, a strong support network, and informed decision-making, you can navigate pregnancy, birth, and postpartum with confidence.
For more expert conversations on pregnancy, mindfulness, and birth advocacy, be sure to tune into The Mindful Room Podcast and stay connected with a community that supports you every step of the way.
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