Gestational diabetes is a common condition that can develop during pregnancy. It affects about 3% to 4% of pregnancies and is considered a complication that requires prompt attention to protect the health of both mother and baby.
What is Gestational Diabetes?
Gestational diabetes is a form of high blood sugar that typically appears during the third trimester of pregnancy. It may result from pre-existing diabetes (such as Type 1 diabetes) or develop due to pregnancy-related hormonal changes that affect the body’s ability to use insulin effectively.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
While any pregnant woman can develop gestational diabetes, certain factors increase the risk, including:
- Age over 25
- Family history of Type 2 diabetes
- Overweight or excessive weight gain during pregnancy
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- Previous gestational diabetes
- Previous delivery of a baby weighing over 4 kg (8.8 lbs)
- History of unexplained fetal death
Effects of Gestational Diabetes on the Mother and Baby
For the Mother:
- Preterm birth
- Preeclampsia, eclampsia
- Development of hypertension
- Increased amniotic fluid levels (polyhydramnios)
- Cesarean delivery and complications during labor
- Increased risk of developing diabetes later in life
For the Baby:
- Macrosomia (birth weight over 4 kg), which can cause delivery complications
- Difficult labor, with potential risks of injury or birth asphyxia
- Delayed fetal development
- Risk of hypoglycemia at birth, as well as low magnesium and calcium levels
- Higher chance of neonatal jaundice and premature birth
- Increased risk of fetal death
- Greater likelihood of childhood and adolescent obesity and development of diabetes in adulthood
How Is Gestational Diabetes Diagnosed?
Screening for gestational diabetes is routinely done between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy with an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT). This involves blood sampling at specific intervals after the ingestion of a glucose solution. Before the test, the pregnant woman will receive dietary instructions from her obstetrician to ensure accurate results.
Managing Gestational Diabetes
The cornerstone of managing gestational diabetes is a healthy, balanced diet designed to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Regular monitoring of blood glucose with a glucose meter helps adjust dietary plans as needed.
If lifestyle and dietary modifications do not adequately control blood sugar, insulin therapy may be prescribed to protect the health of both mother and baby.