What Is Gestational Diabetes? Causes, Symptoms & Management
Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy in women who didn’t previously have diabetes. It typically occurs in the second or third trimester and affects how your body processes sugar (glucose). While it usually goes away after childbirth, proper management is crucial to prevent complications for both mother and baby.
What Causes Gestational Diabetes?
During pregnancy, the placenta produces hormones that can interfere with the function of insulin—a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar. When your body can’t make enough insulin to overcome this resistance, blood glucose levels rise, resulting in gestational diabetes.
Who Is at Risk?
- Being overweight or obese
- Family history of type 2 diabetes
- Previous gestational diabetes in an earlier pregnancy
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Age 25 or older
- Giving birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds (4.1 kg)
Common Symptoms
Gestational diabetes often has no noticeable symptoms. However, some women may experience:
- Unusual thirst
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Increased hunger
How Is It Diagnosed?
Gestational diabetes is usually detected through routine screening between the 24th and 28th week of pregnancy using an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).
Possible Complications
For the Baby:
- High birth weight (macrosomia)
- Premature birth
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) at birth
- Increased risk of developing obesity or type 2 diabetes later in life
For the Mother:
- High blood pressure or preeclampsia
- Increased risk of C-section
- Higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes post-pregnancy
Managing Gestational Diabetes
- Healthy Diet: Focus on whole grains, vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and limit simple sugars.
- Physical Activity: Regular walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can help control blood sugar.
- Monitor Blood Sugar: Track glucose levels as advised by your healthcare provider.
- Medication: In some cases, insulin or oral medications may be needed if diet and exercise aren’t enough.
Can It Be Prevented?
While not all cases are preventable, maintaining a healthy weight, eating balanced meals, and exercising regularly before and during pregnancy can lower your risk.
Conclusion
Gestational diabetes is manageable with the right care and lifestyle adjustments. With early detection, consistent monitoring, and support from healthcare providers, most women go on to have healthy pregnancies and babies.