What is Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy. It happens because the placenta produces hormones that make your body resistant to insulin, the hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. As a result, blood sugar levels can become too high.

How Does it Happen?

Normally, your pancreas makes insulin to help control blood sugar. If your body becomes resistant to insulin during pregnancy, your pancreas cannot keep up, and blood sugar levels rise. This condition only occurs in pregnancy due to the hormones produced by the placenta.

What Are the Risks?

While gestational diabetes can be managed, if it’s not well-controlled, it can lead to:

• Bigger babies, which may increase the need for a C-section.

• Low blood sugar in newborns, which could require extra care.
• Increased risk of preeclampsia, a type of high blood pressure during pregnancy.

How is Gestational Diabetes Managed?

There are several ways to manage gestational diabetes:

• Diet and Exercise: A lower-carb diet and regular movement, such as walking after meals, are the first steps.
• Medications: If diet and exercise aren’t enough, insulin may be needed to control blood sugar.
• Follow-Up Care: After giving birth, your doctor will recommend a glucose tolerance test, usually around 12 weeks postpartum, to ensure your blood sugar levels are normal.

What About the Future?

Women diagnosed with gestational diabetes are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. This diagnosis can be a sign to make healthy lifestyle changes to reduce future risk. It’s important to follow up with your doctor regularly and check your A1C (a long-term measure of blood sugar) at least every three years.

A Personal Note

As someone who has experienced gestational diabetes in two pregnancies, I understand how stressful it can be. Please know that this diagnosis is not your fault. With proper care, you can have a healthy pregnancy. I’m here to support you every step of the way.