Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that develops during pregnancy when a woman’s body is unable to use sugar (glucose) properly. It is caused when hormones produced during pregnancy interfere with a woman’s ability to use insulin efficiently.
What are the symptoms of it during pregnancy?
Generally, pregnant women do not experience any noticeable signs or symptoms of gestational diabetes. Most pregnant women find out they have it after having their blood sugar tested during pregnancy screening. In some cases, pregnant women who experience some symptoms of gestational diabetes often appear between the 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy. Symptoms may include blurred vision, fatigue, frequent infections, increased urination and thirst, and nausea. Making regular prenatal health checkups is key to diagnosing gestational diabetes as soon as possible.
What are the causes of it?
Gestational diabetes happens when levels of hormones are increased and these increased hormones can cause the pancreas to be unable to make enough insulin. Normally, these increased hormones enable the body to utilize insulin as it should. The pancreas produces enough insulin to handle the extra glucose but if not, gestational diabetes can develop.
How does gestational diabetes affect pregnant women?
Most pregnant women experience healthy pregnancies with no complications. However, in some cases, it affects both mother and baby. It can cause premature birth, pre-eclampsia, low blood sugar or jaundice in the baby after delivery, and even possibly stillbirth. It can also increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in women later in life.
How common is gestational diabetes and can It be prevented?
It is estimated that 3-5% of pregnant women will experience gestational diabetes or about 1 in every 20 pregnancies. Generally, pregnant women can manage it through diet and exercise. However, in some cases, women may require additional insulin injections to help keep their blood sugar under control. Good care and follow-up by the mother can help minimize immediate risks to mom and baby.
How to manage and cure gestational diabetes?
If you have gestational diabetes, treatment can help reduce the chances of having problems with your pregnancy. Gynecologist in Ahmedabad will provide a blood sugar testing kit for you to monitor the effects of your treatment. Doctors may also recommend some gentle exercise such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga that can help you decrease your blood sugar level.
If lifestyle changes fail to lower your blood glucose levels, then medications like tablets or insulin injections may be recommended. Regular monitoring of you and your baby is essential during pregnancy for the better health of both. Generally, giving birth before the 41st week is advised if the labor does not start naturally in due time and your baby’s health is at risk.
Is it safe to plan future pregnancy after having a baby?
If you’ve previously experienced gestational diabetes and are planning to start or expand your family, it’s important that you get checked for diabetes. The best gynecologist in Ahmedabad can arrange a simple test to check your glucose levels and if necessary, refer you to a pre-conception clinic for additional support to ensure that your diabetes is under control before conception. If you’ve experienced gestational diabetes in a past pregnancy, a doctor may recommend early screening. If tests reveal that you don’t have diabetes, your healthcare provider recommends early screening at 24-28 weeks.
