Gestational Diabetes: Understanding Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment Options

Pregnancy is a phase of life that brings joy and anticipation to the life of a mother, but it can also bring unexpected challenges. One such challenge that affects many expectant mothers is gestational diabetes. If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it’s crucial to understand this condition and how it might impact you and your baby. Let’s explore the world of gestational diabetes and its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.

What is Gestational Diabetes?

A woman’s body experiences numerous changes during pregnancy to support a growing baby. Sometimes, these changes can throw your body’s ability to process sugar out of balance, which is what happens with gestational diabetes. It is a type of diabetes that develops only during pregnancy. It affects your cells’ capability to use sugar (glucose), leading to high blood sugar levels. This condition usually appears after 20 weeks of pregnancy. The good news is that, in most cases, it disappears after you give birth.

What are the Symptoms of Gestational Diabetes?

Here’s the tricky part – gestational diabetes often doesn’t come with a flashing neon sign. Most women don’t experience any noticeable symptoms. This is why regular check-ups during pregnancy are so important.

What is the Principal Cause of Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes is mostly caused by physiological or functional issues in the body. Picture your pancreas as a hardworking factory, constantly producing insulin to help your body process sugar. During pregnancy, hormones produced by the placenta can make your body resistant to insulin. 

For most women, the pancreas rises to the challenge and produces more insulin to overcome this resistance. But for some, the pancreas can’t keep up. This leads to increased mother’s blood sugar levels, resulting in gestational diabetes.

Risk factors that might increase your chances of developing gestational diabetes include:

• Being overweight or obese
• Lack of physical activity
• Previous gestational diabetes
• Family history of diabetes
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Being of certain ethnicities (South Asian, Black, Hispanic, or Native American)

How is Gestational Diabetes Diagnosed?

Your doctor will likely test for gestational diabetes early in pregnancy and at about 28 weeks. 

The tests could include a 

• Glucose Challenge Test: You’ll drink a sweet solution and have your blood sugar tested an hour later. Think of it as a sneak peek into how your body handles sugar.
• Glucose Tolerance Test: If your results from the first test are higher than normal, you’ll take this more comprehensive test. After fasting overnight, you’ll have your blood sugar tested, drink another sweet solution, and have your blood sugar checked  hourly over three hours.

What is the Best Treatment for Gestational Diabetes?

If you’re diagnosed with gestational diabetes in pregnancy, don’t worry – it’s manageable! The goal of your Obstetrician will be to keep your blood sugar levels in check. Here are the most effective gestational diabetes treatment options:

• Healthy Eating: Your diet becomes your secret weapon. Focus on fibre-rich foods that are low in fat and calories. Think of having a vegetable rainbow (different-coloured vegetables on your plate), whole grains, and lean proteins.
• Regular Exercise: Moving your body can help lower blood sugar. Even a regular schedule of daily walks can make a big difference.
• Monitoring Blood Sugar: Regular monitoring gives you better control over the condition.
• Medication: Sometimes, your doctor might consider insulin injections or oral medications as necessary.

Conclusion

Gestational diabetes in pregnancy might sound scary, but knowledge is power, says Dr. Prathima Reddy. By understanding the causes and knowing what to expect during diagnosis and treatment, you’re already taking steps to ensure a healthy pregnancy. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Your healthcare team is there to support you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Question

Is gestational diabetes high-risk?

While gestational diabetes does increase certain risks, with proper management, most women with this condition have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies. However, following your doctor’s advice closely is crucial to minimize potential complications.

What should be the normal blood glucose levels for women with gestational diabetes?

The target blood sugar ranges for women with gestational diabetes are typically:

• Fasting Blood Sugar should be: Less than or equal to 95 mg/dL 
• An hour after consuming a meal: Less than or equal to 140 mg/dL 

Does gestational diabetes affect babies?

Uncontrolled gestational diabetes can affect your baby. Potential risks include:

• Being born too large (macrosomia)
• Early (preterm) birth
• Low blood sugar after birth
• Breathing difficulties

Reference Links:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK545196/#:~:text=The%20ACOG%20recommended%20levels%20of,hours%20postprandial%20below%20120mg%2FdL

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK582729/