Gestational diabetes is diagnosed if a pregnant women experiences high glucose (sugar) levels during pregnancy, even though she has never had diabetes. Approximated 135,000 women in the U.S. experience gestational diabetes every year, about 4 percent of all pregnant women. It is usually discovered with a routine blood test during the last trimester, as the symptoms of excessive thirst, tiredness and frequent urination are also associated with normal pregnancy and may go unnoticed.
Effects
When the mother has gestational diabetes, high levels of blood glucose cross the placenta and enter the body of the baby. This causes the baby's pancreas to work harder to produce the insulin needed to metabolize the glucose. The baby gets more energy than it needs to develop and stores the excess in fat. These large babies face the risk of damage during birth. They may also experience low blood sugar at birth as the high level of insulin produced by their pancreas is no longer needed. Breathing problems can develop. The risk of obesity or type 2 diabetes later in life increases.
Prevention/Solution
Treatment consists of dietary changes to limit the amount of carbohydrates consumed. You may need to alter the amount or timing of meals, but will generally be able to enjoy all the foods you normally enjoy. Exercising a half hour a day, 3 times a week will lower glucose levels. If lifestyle changes in diet and exercise are not effective, you may be given insulin injections. Insulin is safe to use and will not harm your baby.
Considerations
Medical professionals recommend that women with gestational diabetes monitor their own glucose levels at home throughout the day. As many as four measures a day are needed to keep an accurate record.
Time Frame
Once the baby is born, the mother's glucose level may return to normal within hours. The hospital staff will monitor the levels closely every 2 hours to watch for any fluctuations. It may take up to 2 weeks for normal levels to be reached. Seek medical advice before discontinuing any medications.
Benefits
Women who have gestational diabetes are likely to develop it again in future pregnancies and are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future. Lifestyle changes made during pregnancy and weight loss decrease the risk. Continuing the lifestyle changes made during pregnancy may prevent type 2 diabetes in the future. Regular exercise and a well balanced diet will assist in maintaining a healthy weight, reducing the risk for diabetes.
Tags: during pregnancy, gestational diabetes, type diabetes, changes made, changes made during