Gestational Diabetes
Introduction:
Gestational diabetes is any change in blood sugar levels that is diagnosed for the first time during pregnancy, whether the condition continues after childbirth or not.
- In gestational diabetes, blood sugar usually returns to normal after delivery.
- This condition develops when placental hormones prevent the body from using insulin effectively, which leads to sugar remaining in the blood instead of being absorbed by the cells.
- The condition is diagnosed as “gestational diabetes", whether the female requires insulin or just some adjustments in her diet.
Risk Factors:
Any pregnant woman can develop gestational diabetes, but some women are at greater risk due to the following factors:
- Advanced age.
- Family History.
- Excess weight.
- Previous delivery of an infant with a high birthweight.
Complications:
- Newborn with an excessive birthweight.
- Newborn may develop low blood sugar shortly after birth
- Fetal abnormalities.
- Increased chances of developing preeclampsia.
Treatment:
Treatment may vary based on age, health status and other factors. Some treatment options may include:
- Dietary Modifications..
- Exercising.
- Insulin.
Instructions:
- Blood glucose levels must be maintained and monitored at home, and the results should be recorded.
- Pregnant women must follow up with pregnancy clinics and diabetes clinics regularly and on time
- Pregnant women should stick to a healthy diet as instructed by nutritionists.
- Pregnant women should exercise as instructed by their doctors.
- Urine must be tested daily to make sure there are no ketones present
- Diabetes medications or any other medications should be avoided.
For further information:
