Gestational diabetes is when a woman without diabetes develops high blood sugar levels during pregnancy.
Can gestational diabetes affect my baby?
If gestational diabetes is not well looked after (blood glucose levels remain high), it may result in problems such as a large baby, miscarriage and stillbirth. A large baby can create the risk of injury at delivery, caesarean delivery, forceps delivery, and a need for the baby to be looked after in special care until the glucose level stabilises. Other complications may include pregnancy loss and premature delivery. The hospital will care for you and your baby if any problems occur.
The condition generally results in few symptoms; however, it does increase the risk of pre-eclampsia, depression, and requiring a Caesarean section.
Babies born to mothers with poorly treated gestational diabetes are at increased risk of being too large, having low blood sugar after birth, and jaundice.
If untreated, it can also result in a stillbirth. Children are at higher risk of being overweight and developing type 2 diabetes in the long term.
Gestational diabetes can occur during pregnancy because of insulin resistance or reduced insulin production. Risk factors include being overweight, previously having gestational diabetes, a family history of type 2 diabetes, and polycystic ovarian syndrome.
Diagnosis is by blood tests. Screening is recommended for those at average risk between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation. For high-risk patients, testing may occur at the first prenatal visit.
Prevention is by maintaining a healthy weight and exercising before pregnancy.
Gestational diabetes is treated with a diabetic diet, exercise, medication, and possibly insulin injections.
Most women can manage their blood sugar with diet and exercise. Blood sugar testing is often recommended four times a day for those affected.
Breastfeeding is recommended as soon as possible after birth.
According to NDSS,
