“Pregnant Women in English Jails Face Alarming Diabetes Risk, New Data Shows”

Pregnant women in English prisons are three times more likely to be diagnosed with gestational diabetes, raising concerns about their health and well-being.

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New data reveals that incarcerated pregnant women in England face a threefold increase in the diagnosis of gestational diabetes compared to those outside prison walls. The statistics, obtained through freedom of information requests to NHS trusts, showed that 12% of pregnant women in prison in 2023 were diagnosed with this condition, a stark contrast to the national average of 4%.

Gestational diabetes poses serious risks to both the mother and baby, increasing the likelihood of complications such as high blood pressure, pre-eclampsia, and even stillbirth. Laura Abbott, an associate professor in midwifery, emphasized the alarming nature of these figures, noting the challenges of managing such conditions within a prison setting.

In the past year, there were 215 pregnant women in English prisons, with 52 births occurring while in custody, the majority taking place in hospital. Data from previous years indicated that pregnant women in prison are seven times more likely to experience stillbirth and twice as likely to go into premature labor.

One incarcerated woman, known as Amelia, shared her harrowing experience of being diagnosed with gestational diabetes while in prison. Despite medical recommendations for a specific meal plan to manage her condition, the prison failed to provide adequate care, even offering her moldy fruit. Amelia missed crucial midwifery appointments and developed additional health concerns during her pregnancy, ultimately leading to an emergency c-section after her release.

Calls for reform in the sentencing of pregnant women are gaining momentum, with advocates pushing for alternatives to incarceration. Organizations like Level Up emphasize the need to follow international best practices that prioritize the well-being of pregnant women and their children.

In response to these concerns, a government spokesperson highlighted efforts to reduce the number of pregnant women in prison and improve healthcare services within correctional facilities. Specialized midwives and pregnancy support programs are now standard in all women’s prisons in England, aiming to address the unique needs of pregnant inmates.

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