Gestational Diabetes- What is it ?

Gestational diabetes (GD) is a form of diabetes that arises during pregnancy. It occurs when the mother’s body is not able to cope up with the increased demand for insulin (hormone that regulates blood sugar) production, resulting in high blood sugar levels. It usually disappears post pregnancy but, in some cases the diabetes may sustain even after giving birth to the child. GD is treatable by proper guidance from the doctors. However, if ignored, it is capable of posing serious threat to the mother as well as baby.

How can it affect the mother and baby ?

Mothers suffering from GD should carefully control blood sugar levels throughout their pregnancy to deliver healthy babies. However, there are chances that numerous disorders may arise later.

Some negative effects of GD on babies are:

1. Excessive birth weight

2. Early birth (preterm)

3. Respiratory syndrome (Difficulty in breathing soon after birth)

4. Low blood sugar level

5. Risk of stillbirth

6. Shoulder dystocia (due to increase in birth weight of baby, the shoulder get stuck and fail to deliver; after baby’s head is delivered) Post pregnancy, mothers may develop:
1.High blood pressure 2.Type 2 diabetes

How to identify GD ?

Careful observation of certain symptoms during pregnancy, can be helpful. These include:

1. Fatigue

2. Blurred vision

3. Excessive thirst

4. Frequent urination

5. Snoring

6. Extreme hunger

Who are susceptible ?

Some important risk factors that make females prone to GD are:

1. Age above 40 years

2. Having a family history of Diabetes

3. Being overweight

4. Expecting multiple babies (twins)

5. Women suffering from Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and Acanthosis Nigricans (skin disorder)

6. If weight is gained rapidly in the first half of pregnancy

Takeaway

For many women, diagnosis of GD may be upsetting. But below mentioned tips may be helpful to maintain a healthy pregnancy:

1. Regular blood checkup to monitor blood sugar levels

2. Adopt a healthy diet in pregnancy

3. Avoid unnecessary excess weight gain during pregnancy

An eye on the sweetness levels and its monitoring, is essential to shield you and your baby from unwanted diseases, especially during pregnancy.