Gestational Diabetes

Gestational Diabetes is a disorder in which the body does not make enough insulin or is unable to use all of the insulin needed during pregnancy. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body convert food into energy. Without insulin, glucose (sugar) from the food you eat cannot enter cells and glucose builds up in the blood. Body tissues become starved for energy. The excess sugar in the blood can cross the placenta and cause problems for the baby. This condition occurs in women with no history of diabetes.

Causes

The reason some women develop gestational diabetes is unknown. Contributing factors include:
  • Hormones needed for the babys growth interfere with and block insulin's performance.
  • Excess weight increases insulin resistance.
  • Insulin resistance prevents the body from effectively using the insulin that is produced.

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
  • Obesity or being overweight
  • Family members with diabetes
  • Age: 25 or older
  • Race: Hispanic, African-American, Native-American, Asian-American, Indigenous Australian or a Pacific Islanders
  • Gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy
  • Previous delivery of a large baby
  • Previous stillbirth or too much fluid surrounding a baby during pregnancy

Symptoms

Gestational Diabetes may not cause any symptoms. If symptoms occur, they may include:
  • Increased urination
  • Thirst
  • Hunger
  • Recurring vaginal or urinary tract infections

Diagnosis

All pregnant women should be screened for Gestational Diabetes. Screening usually occurs between 24 and 28 weeks. Women with symptoms or risk factors may receive earlier screening. The screening test involves:
  • Drinking a liquid high in sugar
  • Taking a blood sample to measure the level of sugar in the blood
  • A longer glucose-tolerance test if the initial screening test shows an above normal sugar level

Treatment

Gestational Diabetes treatment aims to return blood sugar levels to normal. Treatment includes: Diet
  • Eat a balanced diet, generally between 2,000 and 2,400 calories.
  • Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and fiber.
  • Limit the amount of fat you eat.
  • Eat adequate amounts of protein and low-fat dairy products.
  • Avoid foods high in sugar.
  • Eat moderate portions of food at each meal.
  • Eat a bedtime snack with protein and a starchy food.
  • Do not gain more than the recommended amount of weight during pregnancy.
  • Keep a record of your food intake to help a dietitian or a doctor revise your nutritional needs.
Exercise
Physical activity helps the body use blood sugar. The insulin you produce will be more effective. Follow your doctor's recommendations for activity levels and restrictions.
Blood Sugar Testing
Check your blood sugar levels during the day with an easy-to-use monitor. Keep a record of the results and show the doctor at prenatal visits.
Insulin
You may need one or two injections of insulin supplement each day.
Follow up
After delivery, blood sugar levels usually return to normal. You will need a glucose tolerance test 6-8 weeks after delivery. Exercise and weight loss in the weeks following childbirth help reduce the risk of developing type II diabetes.

Prevention

The following lifestyle changes may help you to avoid Gestational Diabetes:
  • Maintain normal weight gain during pregnancy.
  • Eat a healthy diet, one that is low in saturated fat and rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
  • Exercise regularly. Do not start an exercise program until you check with the doctor.