Gestational Diabetes: What to Know
Gestational Diabetes (GD) is a type of Diabetes that occurs during pregnancy. It develops when your body cannot produce enough insulin to regulate your blood sugar adequately. While GD is typically temporary, it can still pose a risk to both the mother and baby.
HOW DOES GESTATIONAL DIABETES DEVELOP?
During pregnancy, a woman’s body goes through several hormonal changes. One of the hormones, placental lactogen, can make it harder for the mother’s insulin to work effectively. Hence, the body may need up to three times more insulin than usual, and high blood sugar levels can result if it can’t keep up. High blood sugar levels can harm the baby growing inside the uterus, leading to complications in pregnancy.
WHO IS AT RISK FOR GESTATIONAL DIABETES?
While Gestational Diabetes could affect any pregnancy, some factors increase the risk of developing GD. Women are more likely to develop Gestational Diabetes if they:
Are Overweight or Obese
Have a Family History of Diabetes
Are 25 Years or Older
Previous Pregnancies Had Gestational Diabetes
Had a History of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PSOC)
HOW IS GESTATIONAL DIABETES DIAGNOSED?
Generally, doctors screen for Gestational Diabetes in the Second Trimester, around 24-28 weeks of pregnancy. However, suppose you are at a higher risk of developing Gestational Diabetes. In that case, your healthcare provider may monitor you earlier in pregnancy (before the 13th week). They will most likely perform an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), where you’ll drink a sugary drink, and your blood sugar levels will be measured one hour later.
If your blood sugar levels are too high, you may need further testing, such as a three-hour glucose tolerance test. This test is more extensive and requires you to fast overnight before drinking a sugary drink, after which your blood sugar levels will be measured for three hours.
MANAGING GESTATIONAL DIABETES
If you are diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes, work with your healthcare provider to develop a management plan to control your blood sugar levels. This management plan may include the following:
Regular Monitoring of Blood Sugar: Your healthcare provider may instruct you to check your blood sugar levels several times a day using a glucose meter.
Dietary Changes: You may need to follow a special diet. Your healthcare provider or a registered dietician will help develop an eating plan that suits your needs.
Exercise: Regular activity can help regulate blood sugar levels. Your healthcare provider can help suggest safe practices during pregnancy.
Medication: Some women with Gestational Diabetes might need insulin or oral medication to help regulate blood sugar levels.
Regular Check-Ups: Your healthcare provider will closely monitor you and your baby throughout pregnancy.
CONCLUSION
Gestational Diabetes can be scary, but with proper management, most women have healthy pregnancies and deliver healthy babies. It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations closely and to reach out if you have any questions or concerns. With the proper care and attention, you can reduce the risks associated with Gestational Diabetes and ensure a healthy outcome for you and your baby.
Our Diabetic Pregnancy Journal: Gestational Set helps you track Mom and Baby's health by recording blood glucose levels, nutrition, medication, exercise, appointments, screens, labs, and more!
Along with helpful tips to guide you through your journey, each journal will include a Monthly Planner, Weekly Overview, and Daily Tracker, making it perfect for those with Gestational Diabetes.
#gestational #gestationaldiabetes #diabetesandpregnancy #glycemictargets #diabetesmanagement #bloodglucosecontrol #healthylifestyle #healthyfoods #nutrition #exercise #diabetes #diabeticpregnancyjournal
The Diaspense website and blog are solely educational. The information included on the site is separate from professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. Please look for the expert guidance of your physician or another equally qualified healthcare provider before changing your diet, or exercise regimen or starting a new or existing treatment.