Understanding Gestational Diabetes: A Complete Guide for Expecting Mothers

Living with gestational diabetes during pregnancy can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, this condition affects about 2-10% of pregnancies in the United States each year. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about gestational diabetes in clear, simple terms. 

What Is Gestational Diabetes? 

Imagine your body as a car that needs fuel (glucose) to run. Insulin is like the key that lets this fuel into your cells. During pregnancy, your hormones can sometimes make it harder for this key to work properly. When this happens, sugar builds up in your blood instead of feeding your cells – that’s gestational diabetes. This type of diabetes is often common in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. Typically, with proper treatment, gestational diabetes usually goes away after pregnancy. 

What is the cause of gestational diabetes? 

Gestational diabetes occurs due to hormone changes during pregnancy that affect how the body processes insulin. Here’s the main process: 

During pregnancy, the placenta produces hormones to help the baby grow, including: 

• Human placental lactogen 

• Growth hormone 

• Cortisol 

• Progesterone 

These hormones make it harder for the mother’s insulin to work effectively (called insulin resistance). This is normal during pregnancy, as it helps direct more glucose to the developing baby. 

 Usually, the pancreas compensates by producing extra insulin. However, in some women, the pancreas can’t make enough additional insulin to overcome the resistance, leading to gestational diabetes. 

What are the risk factors for gestational diabetes?  

According to research published in the National Library of Medicine, the risk factor for gestational diabetes is higher in women if they have: 

• Family history of diabetes 

• Overweight before pregnancy 

• Previous pregnancy with gestational diabetes 

• Having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) 

• Belonging to certain ethnic groups (African American, Asian American, Hispanic, Native American, or Pacific Islander) 

While we can’t control all risk factors, understanding them helps you know if you need earlier screening.  

What are the symptoms of gestational diabetes?  

Here’s something interesting – the symptoms of gestational diabetes are often not obvious early on. You’ll only see changes if the sugar levels become extremely high. But you should watch out for these symptoms: 

• Increased thirst 

• Frequent urination 

• Fatigue (beyond normal pregnancy tiredness) 

• Blurred vision 

• Frequent infections 

It’s important to note that some of these symptoms are common with pregnancy. You should see your doctor for a thorough screening and diagnosis.  

Gestational Diabetes Diagnosis: What to Expect

The American Diabetes Association recommends screening between weeks 24-28 of pregnancy. Here’s what to expect:

The One-Hour Test:

• You’ll drink a sweet glucose solution
• After one hour, your blood is tested
• If your levels are high, you’ll need the three-hour test

The Three-Hour Test:

This is more detailed and involves:

• Fasting overnight
• Drinking a stronger glucose solution
• Blood tests every hour for three hours

Will my baby be ok if I have gestational diabetes?

With proper management and care, most women with gestational diabetes have healthy babies. Your healthcare team will monitor you closely throughout pregnancy, with extra ultrasounds to check the baby’s growth. This often requires more frequent prenatal visits and careful tracking of blood sugar levels.

Although there are some potential risks like larger birth weight (macrosomia), temporary low blood sugar after birth, jaundice, or possible breathing difficulties at birth, these can typically be well-managed through proper care. You should follow your doctor’s care plan, which will include regular blood sugar monitoring, taking any prescribed medications, maintaining a healthy diet, staying appropriately active, and attending all prenatal appointments.

Note: Having gestational diabetes doesn’t mean your baby will have diabetes, and most complications are preventable with good care.

How is gestational diabetes treated?

Gestational diabetes is manageable. Here are some steps to treat it during pregnancy:

Dietary management:

• Eating a healthy, balanced diet with a focus on complex carbohydrates, fiber, and lean proteins
• Limiting intake of added sugars and refined carbohydrates
• Monitoring and tracking carbohydrate intake at meals and snacks

Physical activity:

• Engaging in regular, moderate-intensity exercise, such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga
• Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week

Blood glucose monitoring:

• Regularly checking blood glucose levels using a home glucose meter
• Monitoring blood glucose levels before and after meals to ensure they remain within the target range

Insulin or medication:

• If dietary changes and exercise alone are not sufficient to control blood glucose levels
• Your healthcare provider may prescribe insulin or other diabetes medications
• The type and dose of insulin or medication will be tailored to your needs

Fetal monitoring:

• Regular ultrasounds and other tests to monitor the baby’s growth and development
• Close monitoring of the baby’s well-being throughout the pregnancy

Long-Term Considerations

Most women with gestational diabetes have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies. The key is early detection and proper management. However, here are some things you should do after pregnancy to maintain healthy living:

• Get tested 6-12 weeks postpartum
• Continue healthy lifestyle habits
• Get regular diabetes screenings
• Be aware of increased Type 2 diabetes risk later in life

Next Steps

While gestational diabetes requires attention and care, it’s a manageable condition. With proper medical support and lifestyle adjustments, you can have a healthy pregnancy and baby.

Want to learn more or need support? Schedule an appointment with our diabetes care team.

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