Gestational diabetes: What every expecting mother should know

Pregnancy is a wonderful time full of joy and anticipation but it also changes a woman's body in many ways. Gestational diabetes is a temporary form of diabetes that can happen during pregnancy. It is not very well known. It is important to understand this condition because proper care can keep both the mother and the baby safe and healthy.

Gestational diabetes happens when your body can't make enough insulin, the hormone that helps keep blood sugar levels in check while you're pregnant. During this time, the placenta makes hormones that can make it harder for insulin to do its job, which can cause insulin resistance. Gestational diabetes happens when the body can't make enough insulin to get around this resistance which makes blood sugar levels go up.

Gestational diabetes can happen to any woman but some things make it more likely to happen. Being overweight or obese before getting pregnant, having a family history of type 2 diabetes, having gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy and being over 25 years old can all make the chances higher. But any pregnant woman can get it even if she doesn't have these risk factors. That's why it's so important to get regular screenings during pregnancy. They help find the condition early which lets doctors treat it properly and keeps both mother and baby healthy and safe.

Gestational diabetes doesn't always have clear symptoms but some women may notice that they are more thirsty, have increased frequency of urination, are tired and have a blurry vision. It's important to get regular blood sugar tests between 24 and 28 weeks to catch these signs early and get the right care since they can easily be mistaken for normal pregnancy changes.

Gestational diabetes can lead to serious problems like a baby may have Congenital malformations, being too heavy, being born too early, or having low blood sugar after birth if it is not treated. It also raises the risk that both the mother and child will get type 2 diabetes later in life.

The good news is that with the right care and changes to your lifestyle you can effectively manage gestational diabetes.
Eating well
Eat a balanced diet that includes a lot of fiber, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and lean proteins. Cut back on sugary and processed foods. Eating smaller and more frequent meals can help keep your blood sugar levels stable.
Regular exercise
Moderate exercise like walking and prenatal yoga can help your body use insulin better. Always talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise program.
Checking blood sugar
Checking your blood sugar levels on a regular basis can help you see how well your body is adjusting to changes in diet and activity.

If a woman's blood sugar levels stay high even after she changes her diet and exercise habits she may need to take insulin injections, sometimes metformin. Your doctor will tell you what the safest options are.
Gestational diabetes doesn’t define your pregnancy, it simply calls for extra care. You can have a healthy pregnancy by being aware and acting quickly can make all the difference.
Dr. Dheeraj Kapoor, Chief - Endocrinology, Artemis Hospitals