Pregnancy is a very complicated time as the body is going through so many changes and sometimes the body is not ready to accept it. Gestational diabetes is one of the problems that can rise in pregnancy and it could cause problems for the mother and the baby.
WHAT IT IS?
This type of diabetes occurs only during pregnancy. Like other forms of diabetes, it affects body sugar (glucose). Our bodies need glucose for energy to keep us going which can't enter our cells without the help of insulin produced in the pancreas. During pregnancy, the placenta produces hormones to sustain pregnancy. These hormones make the pregnant women cells more resistant to insulin. As placenta grows larger in the second and third trimesters, it secretes more of these hormones making it even harder for insulin to do its job. Normally, pancreas responds by producing extra insulin. But sometimes pancreas can't keep up. The result may be dangerously high blood sugar levels. Gestational diabetes usually develops during the second trimester. It is short-lived. Blood sugar levels generally return to normal soon after delivery.
SYMPTOMS & PRECAUTION
Most women with gestational diabetes have no noticeable signs or symptoms, but in rare cases, there's excessive thirst or increased urination. Pregnant women above the age of 25, pre-diabetic, or overweight women and those with a family history of diabetes are more prone to the disease. Screening for gestational diabetes should be a routine part of pre-natal care.
EFFECTS
Untreated or uncontrolled blood sugar levels can cause problems for you and your baby. Gestational diabetes increases the risk of high blood pressure and excess protein in the urine. Left untreated, can lead to serious, even life-threatening complications for both mother and baby. It could cause macrosomia (excess growth of the foetus), hypoglycemia or jaundice shortly after birth. Babies of mothers who have gestational diabetes have a higher risk of developing obesity and type 2 diabetes later in life. Controlling your blood sugar level is essential for keeping the baby healthy and avoiding complications during delivery. There are no guarantees of not having gestational diabetes but eating healthy, more physical activity.
MEDICAL ASSISTANCE
If you are found to have gestational diabetes you need frequent check-ups. During this period, your blood sugar level needs to be carefully monitored. To make sure that your blood sugar level has returned to normal after your baby is born, get your blood tested after delivery and again after six weeks. Once you've had gestational diabetes, it's a good idea to have your blood sugar level checked at least once a year. Your treatment should include blood sugar monitoring four to five times a day, diet control by eating foods that are high in nutrition and low in fat and calories, exercise like walking, cycling, and swimming, gardening, in addition to normal housework and medication if diet and exercise aren't enough.