Gestational Diabetes: Risks and Care During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is often described as a beautiful journey, but it also brings unique health challenges.

One such condition is gestational diabetes, which develops in some women during pregnancy.

Unlike other forms of diabetes, it appears only during pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth. However, it requires careful attention since it can affect both mother and baby.

What is Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes occurs when your body cannot produce enough insulin to handle the increased blood sugar levels that naturally rise during pregnancy.

This leads to high blood sugar, which if left unmanaged, can create complications for you and your baby.

Risks of Gestational Diabetes

1. For the Mother

• Higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life
• Complications during delivery due to a larger baby size
• Increased chance of needing a C-section

2. For the Baby

• Higher birth weight, which can cause delivery complications
• Risk of premature birth
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) shortly after birth
• Greater likelihood of obesity and type 2 diabetes in the future

Symptoms to Watch Out For

Gestational diabetes often has no noticeable symptoms, which is why screening during pregnancy is important. However, some women may experience:

• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision

Since these can overlap with normal pregnancy changes, testing is the best way to confirm.

How is it Diagnosed?

Doctors usually recommend a glucose screening test between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy.

If your results show high blood sugar, a follow-up glucose tolerance test confirms the diagnosis.

Managing Gestational Diabetes

1. Healthy Diet

A balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables, and fruits can help regulate blood sugar. Portion control is especially important.

2. Regular Exercise

Simple activities such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can improve your body’s ability to use insulin.

3. Monitoring Blood Sugar

Regularly checking blood sugar levels ensures that they remain in the recommended range.

4. Medical Support

Some women may need insulin therapy or other treatments under a doctor’s guidance.

5. Prenatal Care

Frequent checkups allow your healthcare team to monitor your baby’s growth and health closely.