Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy in women who don't already have diabetes. It usually goes away after the baby is delivered, but it can cause problems during pregnancy if it's not controlled.
Causes
Gestational diabetes occurs when your body can't make enough insulin or use insulin effectively during pregnancy. Insulin is a hormone that helps your body use blood sugar for energy. During pregnancy, your body needs more insulin to help meet the increased demand for energy. If your body can't make enough insulin or use insulin effectively, your blood sugar level may rise too high.
Risk factors
- Age
- Being overweight or obese
- Having a history of gestational diabetes
- Having a family history of diabetes
- Having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Having a high blood pressure disorder
- Being of certain ethnicities, such as African American, Hispanic, American Indian, or Asian
Symptoms
Most women with gestational diabetes don't have any symptoms. However, some women may experience:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Extreme hunger
- Feeling tired
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing sores or cuts
- Frequent skin or vaginal infections
Diagnosis
Gestational diabetes is usually diagnosed between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy with a blood sugar test. If you have one or more risk factors for gestational diabetes, your doctor may recommend that you be tested earlier in pregnancy.
The blood sugar test involves drinking a sugary solution and then having your blood sugar levels checked one and two hours later. If your blood sugar levels are too high, you will be diagnosed with gestational diabetes.
Treatment
The goal of treating gestational diabetes is to keep your blood sugar levels within a healthy range. This will help to reduce your risk of complications for you and your baby.
Treatment for gestational diabetes usually includes:
- Eating a healthy diet
- Exercising regularly
- Monitoring your blood sugar levels
- Taking insulin or other medications, if necessary
Prevention
There is no sure way to prevent gestational diabetes. However, you can reduce your risk by:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Exercising regularly
- Eating a healthy diet
- Controlling your blood pressure
- Getting regular checkups
Complications
If gestational diabetes is not controlled, it can increase your risk of complications for you and your baby. These complications can include:
- Preeclampsia
- High blood pressure
- Large for gestational baby (LGA)
- Cesarean delivery
- Miscarriage
- Stillbirth
- Infant hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
Management
Managing gestational diabetes requires a team effort. You will work closely with your doctor, diabetes educator, and dietitian to develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
Your treatment plan may include:
- Eating a healthy diet
- Exercising regularly
- Monitoring your blood sugar levels
- Taking insulin or other medications, if necessary
It is important to follow your treatment plan closely to help you and your baby stay healthy.
Prognosis
With proper treatment, most women with gestational diabetes have healthy pregnancies and babies. After delivery, your blood sugar levels should return to normal. However, you are at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
If you have any questions or concerns about gestational diabetes, please talk to your doctor.