Globally, 14% of women are diagnosed with gestational diabetes. This condition can cause harm to both mother and baby, so being tested and treated is crucial for your health.
Vijaya Nama, MD, and her team offer women’s health services and diabetes care. Testing for gestational diabetes is routine for women receiving prenatal care, and if you’re diagnosed, you may need extra help in managing the condition. We’re here for you.
You’ve heard of diabetes but may not know very much about gestational diabetes. It’s important to understand this real health risk during pregnancy.
Your body undergoes a massive transformation when you’re pregnant. Many women develop a condition called insulin resistance toward the end of their pregnancy. This makes it difficult for your body to regulate your blood sugar levels.
If insulin resistance develops earlier in your pregnancy it can lead to gestational diabetes. Most of the time, it’s temporary; after birth, you no longer have diabetes.
When gestational diabetes is detected early, you can take steps to control your blood sugar, keeping you and your baby healthy. Without treatment, gestational diabetes can lead to significant risks, such as:
One risk to your baby is low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, after birth. Because you have excessive glucose in your blood with gestational diabetes, your baby’s body produces more insulin. This is something your child’s pediatrician will need to monitor.
The medical name for large birth weight is macrosomia. One risk of gestational diabetes is that your baby grows so much it’s difficult or impossible to have a vaginal delivery. C-section deliveries have a higher risk of infection and require a longer recovery time.
If you have gestational diabetes, you have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Understanding your condition, the associated risks, and the best way to manage it can help you enjoy as healthy a pregnancy as possible. Here are a few things you can do:
What you eat matters. Aim for a diet rich in protein, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid processed foods like prepared cakes and cookies as well as food that’s high in sodium and saturated fats.
Physical activity helps regulate the glucose in your blood. Try to get in some sort of exercise each day. Try a walk around your neighborhood or a gentle prenatal yoga class. Discuss your exercise routine with Dr. Nama if you’re worried about whether you’re doing too much or not enough.
If we prescribe medication to help keep your blood sugar in the appropriate range, take it as directed. If you have questions, call us.
Prenatal appointments are especially important when you have gestational diabetes. Make sure you attend them all.
Pregnancy is stressful, and having a condition like gestational diabetes can make it even more so. We can suggest a therapist or support group if you need it. Stay in touch with your friends and family, too.
Our team wants you to enjoy a healthy pregnancy, successful delivery, and happy motherhood. If you have questions about gestational diabetes or any other aspect of your pregnancy, schedule an appointment.
