Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that only develops during pregnancy. Due to possible hormonal changes, the mother's body can become insulin resistant.
First Step: Take action
Visit your OB/GYN or Gynecologist to get tested for Gestational Diabetes.
Second Step: Know the Risk Factors
According to the Mayo Clinic:
- Having a history of Gestational Diabetes
- Being overweight or obese
- Being older than 25 years
- Having a family history of diabetes (especially if a parent or sibling has Diabetes)
- If you previously delivered a baby weighing more than 9 pounds
- Having glucose in your urine
- Being African-American, Hispanic, Native American or Asian
- Having "Prediabetes," also known as impaired glucose tolerance
Third Step:Get Tested on GTT
- The Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT) measures the blood sugar levels in the body
- Take the oral Glucose Tolerance Test during the 2nd or 3rd trimester as recommended by a Gynecologist
Fourth Step: Understand the results
Stated by the Mayo Clinic Guidelines:
If you take the GTT within an hour:
- If less than 7.8mmol/L= within normal levels
- If between 7.8 and 11.1 mmol/L= additional testing is needed
- If higher 11.1mmol/L= Meets the requirement for gestational diabetes
If you take the GTT within 2 hours:
- If higher than 5.3mmol/L= Gestational Diabetes
Within 1 hour:
- If higher than 10.6mmol/L= Gestational Diabetes
Within 2 hours:
- If higher than 9.0mmol/L= Gestational Diabetes
Fifth Step: Seek Treatment
Actively monitor blood sugar levels
American Diabetes Association recommends:
Setting goals for blood sugar levels
- Before a meal– 95 mg/dl or less
- One hour after a meal–140 mg/dl or less
- Two hours after a meal–120 mg/dl or less
Six Step: Possible Complications
Mayo Clinic states that Complications can occur with Gestational Diabetes. The following are possible outcomes for the babies:
- Large Gestation Age ( LGA): 9 pounds baby can be stuck in the birth canal
- Early or Preterm delivery due to size of the baby
- Early babies can have difficulty breathing
- Babies can develop hypoglycemia
- Babies have increased risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes
Complications affecting Mom:
- Increased risk for Type 1 Diabetes or Type 2 Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Cesarean Delivery due to LGA
Final Step: Enjoy a Healthy Pregnancy
- Engage in a healthy balanced diet
- Including physical activity/exercise
- Always follow up with your Doctor