Gestational Diabetes:What Every Expecting Mother Needs to Know About Blood Sugar and Pregnancy

What is Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels during pregnancy. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can make the body less responsive to insulin, which can lead to high blood sugar levels. If left untreated, this has the potential to cause complications for both the mother and the developing baby.

Causes and Risk Factors
Although the precise cause of gestational diabetes remains unclear, several risk factors have been identified that may increase the likelihood of its development, including:

Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy hormones can interfere with insulin function, leading to insulin resistance.

Family History: A family history of diabetes may increases the likelihood of developing gestational diabetes.

Obesity: Abnormal body weight pre-pregnancy may impact how effectively the boidy manages sugar.

Age: Studies have proven that mothers over optimal child-bearing age have an increased risk to developing gestational diabetes and its related complications.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Because this condition is commonly linked to insulin resistance, it may increase the risks.

Previous Gestational Diabetes: Mothers who had gestational diabetes in a past pregnancy are more likely to develop it again.

Symptoms of Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes often does not cause noticeable symptoms, which is why routine screening is important. However, some expecting mothers may experience:
Increased thirst

Frequent urination

Fatigue

Blurred vision

Frequent infections (such as urinary tract infections)

How is Gestational Diabetes Diagnosed?
Gestational diabetes is usually diagnosed between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy using a glucose screening test:

Glucose Challenge Test: A woman drinks a sugary solution, and blood sugar levels are measured after an hour. If the levels are high, further testing is done.

Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT): This test requires fasting overnight, followed by drinking a glucose solution. Blood sugar levels are measured at intervals over a few hours.

Complications of Gestational Diabetes
If not properly managed, potential complications associated with gestational diabetes include:

For the Baby:
Excessive birth weight (macrosomia), which may lead to delivery complications

Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) after birth

Increased risk of developing obesity and type 2 diabetes later in life

Preterm birth and respiratory issues

For the Mother:
Increased chance of requiring a cesarean delivery

Hypertension, preeclampsia, and its associated complications may occur

Greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes post-pregnancy if not monitored and treated by a specialist

Treatment and Management
Gestational diabetes can often be managed with lifestyle changes, but in some cases, medication or insulin therapy may be necessary.

To reduce this risk:
Maintain a healthy diet and active lifestyle

Get regular blood sugar screenings

Breastfeed if possible, as it can help with postpartum weight loss and blood sugar regulation

At Empire Endocrinology, we provide expert care for managing gestational diabetes and ensuring a healthy pregnancy. If you have concerns about your blood sugar levels during pregnancy, schedule a consultation with our specialists today.