Gestational Diabetes: What You Need to Know

Gestational diabetes is a condition that develops in pregnant women, usually during the second trimester. It and occurs when your pancreas does not make enough insulin to keep your blood sugar stable. The good news is, if it’s treated and managed well during pregnancy, gestational diabetes goes away once your baby is born.

If you’re pregnant, it’s important for you to know the risk factors associated with gestational diabetes in order to make sure you and your baby stay healthy and free of complications during this important and exciting time of your life. While gestational diabetes can affect any pregnant woman, there are some dynamics that make you more susceptible to developing the condition, including:

• Family or personal history of diabetes
• Being over age 25
• Being obese before becoming pregnant
• A pattern of miscarriages or stillbirths that are unexplained
• Polyhydramnios (an excess amount of amniotic fluid)
• Being African American, Hispanic, American Indian or Asian
• High blood pressure

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may have gestational diabetes:

• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Urinating frequently
• Extreme thirst
• Nausea and vomiting
• Weight loss despite an increased appetite

Taking Control of Gestational Diabetes
If you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, there are steps you can take to manage your condition:

1. 1. Check Your Blood Sugar Frequently
   During pregnancy, and up to labor and delivery, your blood sugar will continue to be assessed. And once you’ve given birth, it will continue to be monitored, as women who have gestational diabetes are at higher risk for developing Type 2 diabetes in the future.
2. 2. Exercise Regularly
   This goes for all women who are pregnant, but if you have gestational diabetes, staying active is critical. Exercise triggers a decrease in blood sugar levels, prompting your body to transport glucose into your cells and use it for energy.
3. 3. Eat right
   It’s important to eat foods low in calories and fat. Instead, incorporate those that are high in fiber and nutrition like fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

If you have questions about gestational diabetes, or if you want to learn more about the range of services provided by Women’s Care of Beverly Hills Group, contact us directly at 310-657-1600.