Pregnancy is an exciting journey, but for some women, it comes with the added challenge of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM)—a form of diabetes that develops during pregnancy and usually disappears after childbirth.
If managed properly, most women with gestational diabetes go on to have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what gestational diabetes is, why it occurs, how it affects mother and baby, and how to manage it effectively.
What is Gestational Diabetes?
Gestational diabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels rise during pregnancy. It typically develops around the 24th to 28th week.
Causes:
- Hormones from the placenta can interfere with the action of insulin, causing insulin resistance.
- The body may struggle to produce enough insulin to compensate.
Who is at Risk?
- Women over age 25
- Family history of diabetes
- Overweight or obese before pregnancy
- Previous pregnancy with gestational diabetes
- Previously giving birth to a baby weighing more than 4 kg (about 9 pounds)
How Gestational Diabetes Affects Mother and Baby
Potential Risks for the Baby:
- High birth weight (macrosomia)
- Increased risk of birth injuries
- Breathing difficulties at birth
- Low blood sugar shortly after delivery
- Higher risk of obesity and Type 2 diabetes later in life
Potential Risks for the Mother:
- Increased risk of high blood pressure and preeclampsia
- Higher chance of needing a cesarean delivery
- Increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes in the future
Diagnosing Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is usually detected during routine glucose screening between the 24th and 28th week of pregnancy.
Tests May Include:
- Glucose Challenge Test (GCT): Initial screening to check how your body handles sugar.
- Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT): More detailed test if GCT results are high.
Managing Gestational Diabetes
The good news? With proper management, most women can control gestational diabetes and deliver healthy babies.
1. Monitor Blood Sugar Levels
- Check blood sugar several times a day as recommended by your healthcare provider.
- Keep track of patterns to see how meals and activity affect your readings.
2. Follow a Balanced Meal Plan
- Focus on complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of vegetables.
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals to prevent blood sugar spikes.
- Work with a dietitian or diabetes educator to create a personalized plan.
3. Exercise Regularly
- Moderate physical activity (like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga) helps control blood sugar and supports overall health.
- Always consult your doctor before starting any exercise routine during pregnancy.
4. Medication if Needed
- If blood sugar levels can’t be controlled through diet and exercise alone, insulin therapy or oral medications may be prescribed.
- Insulin is considered safe during pregnancy.
5. Attend Regular Prenatal Checkups
- Your healthcare team will monitor your baby’s growth and overall pregnancy health closely.
- Regular ultrasounds and non-stress tests may be recommended.
Preparing for Delivery
- Your doctor will decide whether a vaginal delivery or cesarean section is safest based on your baby’s size and health.
- Your blood sugar will be monitored carefully during labor.
After delivery:
- Blood sugar levels usually return to normal, but follow-up testing is essential.
- Your baby’s blood sugar will be checked soon after birth.
Long-Term Outlook
Even though gestational diabetes typically resolves after childbirth, it’s important to:
- Get tested for Type 2 diabetes 6 to 12 weeks after delivery.
- Continue regular screenings every 1 to 3 years.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later.
Breastfeeding is highly recommended, as it can help regulate your blood sugar and provide numerous benefits for your baby.
Gestational diabetes can feel overwhelming, but it’s highly manageable with early detection, regular monitoring, and the right support.
A proactive approach—focusing on healthy eating, safe exercise, and regular checkups—can help ensure the best outcome for both mother and baby.
Remember, you don’t have to navigate gestational diabetes alone. Work closely with your healthcare team, ask questions, and lean on family and friends for support.
