Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is when a mom develops diabetes during pregnancy. Diabetes affects the way your body uses sugar (glucose) and can affect you and your baby’s health. Potential complications of gestational diabetes include pre-term birth, stillbirth, and an increased risk of C-section.
The good news is that you can control gestational diabetes by eating healthy foods, exercising, and if necessary, taking medication. In addition, this condition typically goes away soon after delivery.
Early detection of gestational diabetes is the best way to reduce your risk of complications and receive the care you need.
If you already have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, there's no way to prevent diabetes in pregnancy. However healthy eating, exercise, and staying diligent with your medication will help you avoid complications.
There is no surefire way to prevent gestational diabetes. However, healthy eating, moderate exercise, and managing your weight can minimize your risk. If you've had gestational diabetes in a past pregnancy, these healthy choices may help you avoid it in your current pregnancy and reduce your chance of getting type 2 diabetes later in life.
Glucose screenings and blood tests are very important early in pregnancy. Typically, screening for gestational diabetes mellitus occurs between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. However, if you or your health care provider has concerns, you may be screened earlier.
Half of women with gestational diabetes do not show outward signs of the disease, so testing has become a routine part of pre-natal care.
Risk factors for this condition include a history of diabetes in the family, obesity, and being diagnosed with gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy.
Diet, exercise, and medication are the three main treatments options for diabetes. Incorporating lifestyle changes is the best way to ensure you and your baby stay healthy during your pregnancy. Our specially-trained doctors and staff help you navigate these treatment options, and answer any questions you may have.
After the placenta is delivered, the pregnancy hormones that caused your gestational diabetes go away and your blood sugar levels should fall back to normal. Any medicines you were taking to control your blood sugar will usually be stopped after you give birth. A two hour blood glucose test is recommended six to 12 weeks after giving birth to make sure that you do not have diabetes or pre-diabetes.
Women who have had gestational diabetes have an increased chance of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. Following a healthy lifestyle, including exercise and weight management, can help prevent or delay the development of type 2 diabetes. It is recommended to get tested for diabetes by your primary care doctor every one to three years if you have had GDM in your previous pregnancies.
We believe in a team approach to your care. Physicians, nurses, registered dieticians and diabetes nurse specialists all work closely with you. Depending on your situation, you may begin treatment with us in the early stages of your pregnancy and continue all the way through your delivery. Or you may only need to see a maternal fetal medicine specialist for consultations and testing, but return to your regular provider for the rest of your prenatal care.
Our expert team can help you decide which treatment plan is right for you and your pregnancy.
No matter your situation, you can count on SSM Health to deliver comprehensive high-risk pregnancy care. Our goal is to give you a peace of mind and ensure you have the healthiest pregnancy possible. Find a provider near you today to learn more.