A shortage of midwives is being touted as a potential reason why some pregnant women in Waikato are missing on their diabetes checks

A Waikato University study has found only a quarter of women in the region are being screened for gestational diabetes during their pregnancy as per the national guidelines.

If not properly managed, the condition can be dangerous, even fatal, for mums and babies.

Waikato University's Doctor Lynne Chepulis says inconsistent guidelines, and a shortage of midwives, could be to blame.

She says women are finding it difficult to find a midwife in time for early screenings.