On this page, you will find everything you need to know about gestational diabetes.
What is Gestational Diabetes?
It is an increase in blood sugar (glucose) levels during pregnancy, which often disappears after childbirth. It typically appears in the second or third trimester and occurs when the body is unable to produce enough insulin.
What Are the Symptoms of Gestational Diabetes?
Typically, there are no clear symptoms during pregnancy, and the condition is usually detected during routine pregnancy check-ups. However, some women may notice symptoms when blood sugar levels rise, such as:
- Extreme thirst.
- Frequent urination.
- Dryness around the mouth.
What Are the Causes of Gestational Diabetes?
Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing gestational diabetes, such as:
- Having had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy.
- Giving birth to a baby weighing over 4 kg.
- Obesity (Body Mass Index of 30 or more).
- Family history of diabetes (first-degree relative).
- Having polycystic ovary syndrome.
How Is It Diagnosed?
The doctor will take a medical history and perform a physical examination. Additional procedures may include:
- A glucose test conducted between the 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy. This involves drinking a glucose solution to measure blood sugar levels.
Fasting for 8 hours before the test is recommended. First, a blood sample is drawn. After drinking the glucose solution, blood sugar is measured at intervals over two hours:
- A 75-gram glucose dose is used for screening
- Fasting blood sugar level is above 95 mg/dL.
- One–hour level above 180 mg/dL.
- Two hours level above 155 mg/dL.
Any one of these elevated readings indicates gestational diabetes.
What Are the Treatments for Gestational Diabetes?
Treatment involves several measures, including
- Controlling blood sugar levels
- Following a healthy diet
- Taking necessary medications, if prescribed
How To Prevent Gestational Diabetes?
While gestational diabetes cannot be completely prevented, the following steps may help ensure a healthy pregnancy and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later:
- Following a healthy diet.
- Exercising regularly.
- Maintaining an ideal weight.
What Are the Complications of Gestational Diabetes?
Gestational diabetes usually resolves after childbirth, but complications may include:
- Increased risk of preeclampsia.
- Fetal abnormalities.
- High blood pressure during pregnancy.
- Increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
- Low blood sugar in the newborn immediately after birth.
- Giving birth to a large baby.
- Premature birth: High blood sugar may lead to early labour or a medically recommended early delivery due to the baby’s size.
When Should You See a Doctor?
See your doctor if:
- Blood sugar levels remain low (60–65 mg/dL) or rise above 200–250 mg/dL
- You experience persistent fatigue or nausea
Frequently Asked Questions
Does gestational diabetes make me more prone to diabetes?
Yes. If you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, you are more likely to develop it again in a future pregnancy. You are also at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
