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"Gestational Diabetes"

About: Forth Valley Royal Hospital / Diabetes Forth Valley Royal Hospital / Maternity unit

(as a service user),

I had GDM in my previous pregnancy, this meant the team at FV treated me as having it from the outset. I am only 14 wks but the experience I have had has been excellent. 

Previously, I had to return numerous times to the midwife insisting something was wrong, I had multiple symptoms of GDM but didn’t have the knowledge to know this was what it was. Eventually, I did get tested and it was confirmed I had GDM. However, on that experience, I was told and handed a monitor on the same day with a bunch of information with suggested meal plans. There wasn’t a lot of information provided, I did have to do a lot of the research myself. However, this was a difficult time as it was during COVID.

This pregnancy, I have been seen very early on. Invited to a group session, provided my monitor, shown how to use it and given a number to contact if I have had any issues. The session was excellent, it went into details about what kinds of foods could cause spikes in blood sugars, foods to avoid, etc. I left feeling equipped with all the information I needed and not feeling as though I would be on a super restricted diet again. 

Following on from starting my journey, I have had some high readings. I called the team to discuss this and they have always made time to speak with me, reassure me etc or arrange to call back.

I had a full and comprehensive call with the dietitian, who has been excellent. She was informative and listened to what I was saying. As well as explaining my options and what may work best for me. 

I feel supported and cared for during this difficult time and can see a massive improvement on the service over the past few years which is a credit to the staff who have been working hard on this.

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Responses

Response from Alison McBride, Head of Midwifery, Women & Children, NHS Forth Valley last month
Alison McBride
Head of Midwifery, Women & Children,
NHS Forth Valley
Submitted on 12/06/2025 at 17:16
Published on Care Opinion at 17:16


picture of Alison McBride

Dear AMCLIN

Thank you so much for taking the time to post this feedback at such a busy time in your life. It is fantastic to hear that your experience has been improved and is so positive this time. The midwifery staff and whole team have worked very hard to improve this service and it's great to see the difference it is making.

I will share this with all staff and in particular the midwives who deliver the information sessions and education around GDM.

Take Care and I wish you well

Alison McBride

Head of Midwifery

alison.mcbride@nhs.scot

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