Gestational diabetes mellitus is a transient type of diabetes in pregnancy. It occurs when there is excess glucose in blood. This type of diabetes is prevalent between the 24th and 28th weeks of development. Often, the condition resolves after delivery. However, it may be a risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes in mothers later in life. Gestational diabetes is associated with some health risks to both fetus and the pregnant mother. The risks include:
- Development of preeclampsia during the gestation period
- Hypertension in pregnant women
- Hypoglycemia among the newborns
- Premature birth
- Overweight newborns
After delivery, the physician will confirm the mother’s blood sugar level. The next blood sugar reading will be after six weeks.
Causes of Gestational Diabetes
It is still unclear why some women may develop gestational diabetes while others don’t. However, the following risk factors may increase the chances of pregnant mothers developing the condition.
- Body mass index above 30
- Race
- Mothers with polycystic ovary syndrome
- Family history of diabetes
- If you had an overweight baby in the previous pregnancy
- History of gestational diabetes in earlier pregnancies
- Women above the age of 35 years
- History of high blood pressure
Usually, excess glucose is converted into glycogen. In pregnancy, there are various hormones produced that researchers believe may antagonize the conversion of glucose into glycogen. It implies that the blood sugar in pregnant women will remain unregulated predisposing them to gestational diabetes.
Complications
Unregulated blood sugar is associated with various complications such as unplanned cesarean delivery, premature delivery, or elevated blood pressure. The C-section birth will be necessary because the baby will be too big to go through the birth canal.
Unregulated gestational diabetes may cause a baby’s death just before or immediately after delivery. Some infants born to mothers with gestational diabetes are reported to have respiratory distress syndrome, making breathing difficult.
The hypoglycemia observed among babies born to mothers with gestational diabetes is a risk factor for seizures. In correcting the hypoglycemia after delivery, a prompt intravenous glucose solution may be necessary.
Signs and Symptoms
Most pregnant women may fail to notice signs and symptoms associated with gestational diabetes. However, common symptoms associated with diabetes, such as excessive thirst, weakness, blurred vision, frequent and excessive urination, will be present. Other symptoms include the presence of sugar in the urine and recurrent bladder infection.
Any pregnant woman with unusual symptoms should inform their physician promptly. The doctor will carry out a proper diagnosis to determine if the symptoms are related to gestational diabetes or other conditions.
Treatment
The physician will focus on controlling the blood glucose level. They will educate pregnant women on how to monitor the blood sugar level while at home. They will also note the glucose readings in the office visits. Regular monitoring helps in controlling blood sugar. By use of ultrasound, the physician will monitor the developing fetus.
In most cases, they may recommend induction of labor before the 40th week to prevent any complications to the baby and the mother. In controlling the blood sugar levels, the doctor may recommend dietary modifications and regular physical activities.
A balanced diet prevents variation in blood glucose levels. Foods believed to be effective in gestational diabetes include fruits, non-starchy vegetables, low-fat dairy products, whole grains, healthy fats and lean proteins.
Active participation in physical activities before and during pregnancy protects pregnant women from having gestational diabetes. Half an hour of moderate exercise for most days of the week effectively reduces the risks of gestational diabetes. Consider swimming laps, riding bikes, and brisk walking.
When planning to be pregnant, it is advisable to lose extra weight so that the pregnancy can be healthier. Note that it is normal to add some weight in pregnancy. However, sudden gain of excess weight may increase the risk of developing gestational diabetes. Consult your physician on a reasonable weight to maintain in pregnancy.
Regular exercise, consuming a healthy balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can assist pregnant women in avoiding gestational diabetes. Besides, they are also effective in preventing complications for those who already have the condition.