What is Gestational Diabetes (GD)?
It is a condition that develops during pregnancy when the body struggles to produce enough insulin to keep blood sugar levels in check.
Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar.
Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar but is less effective due to pregnancy-related hormonal changes.
Unlike Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, GD is specific to pregnancy and typically resolves after delivery.
However, if left unmanaged, it can lead to complications for both mom and baby, such as
- Premature birth
- Considerable birth weight
- A higher risk of Type 2 diabetes in the future.
What Causes Gestational Diabetes?
During pregnancy, hormones released by the placenta can interfere with your body’s ability to use insulin, leading to insulin resistance.
This means your body requires an increased amount of insulin to regulate blood sugar levels than usual to stabilize blood sugar levels.
Sometimes, the pancreas can't produce enough insulin to meet this increased demand, leading to higher blood sugar levels.
This condition is known as gestational diabetes, and it typically begins around the 24th to 28th week of pregnancy.
Who is at Risk for Gestational Diabetes?
While any pregnant woman can develop GD, certain factors can increase the risk:
- Obesity or Overweight: If you're overweight before pregnancy, you're more likely to develop GD.
- Age: Women over 25, especially those over 35, have a higher risk.
- Family History: A family history of Type 2 diabetes increases your risk of GD.
- Previous Gestational Diabetes: If you've had GD in a previous pregnancy, you're more likely to experience it again.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Women with PCOS may also be more prone to GD.
How is Gestational Diabetes Diagnosed?
Gestational diabetes is usually diagnosed through a routine blood test between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy.
The process begins with a glucose challenge test, where you consume a sugary drink, and your blood is checked an hour later.
If your blood sugar is elevated, your doctor may recommend a glucose tolerance test, which involves fasting overnight and having your blood sugar tested several times after consuming a sugary drink. This test helps confirm if you have GD.
How Can Gestational Diabetes Be Managed?
Managing gestational diabetes is essential for both you and your baby's health.
Here are some steps to help you manage it effectively:
- Blood Sugar Monitoring: You must check your blood sugar regularly with a glucose meter at home.
- Healthy Eating: A balanced diet with fiber, proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbs is critical. Limit sugary foods and simple carbohydrates.
- Exercise: Regular activity, like walking or swimming, can help in managing blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity.
- Insulin: If your blood sugar levels remain high despite of lifestyle changes, your doctor may advise insulin injections.
- Frequent Checkups: Regular prenatal visits are crucial to monitor both your health and your baby's growth. Additionally, ultrasounds may be needed to track fetal development.
If you're pregnant and concerned about gestational diabetes, let Srinivasa Hospital guide you with the expert care and guidance you deserve. Our team will work with you to create a personalized management plan to ensure your and your baby's health Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take proactive steps for a healthy pregnancy!
