Gestational diabetes is a disorder that may appear during pregnancy. It is characterized by high blood glucose levels due to hormonal changes that affect the body's ability to use insulin efficiently.
It is often detected during the second half of pregnancy through medical tests. Although it usually disappears after delivery, it may require close monitoring to avoid complications that could affect the health of the mother and fetus.
What is gestational diabetes
It is a type of diabetes that develops as a result of increased resistance of the body's cells to the hormone insulin due to the natural hormonal changes of pregnancy. It usually appears in the second half of pregnancy, and symptoms disappear after delivery.
Causes of gestational diabetes
The primary cause is hormonal changes during pregnancy, but there are risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing it, such as:
- High maternal blood pressure.
- Being overweight before pregnancy.
- Pregnancy after the age of 35.
- Ovarian cysts.
- Previous gestational diabetes.
- High maternal cholesterol.
- Family history of diabetes.
- Previous birth of a large baby.
Symptoms of Gestational Diabetes
- Frequent urination.
- Increased thirst.
- Increased vaginal yeast infections.
- Sometimes blurred vision.
- Urinary tract infections.
- Constant fatigue and exhaustion.
How is Gestational Diabetes Diagnosed
Gestational diabetes is diagnosed between weeks 24 and 28 of pregnancy by performing an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). This involves the pregnant woman drinking a sugar solution and measuring her blood sugar at intervals.
Then, a fasting blood sugar test is performed, measuring her blood sugar level after fasting for 8 hours. Finally, a random blood sugar test is performed.
What are the complications of gestational diabetes for the mother and fetus
Complications of gestational diabetes for the mother
- Possibility of cesarean delivery.
- Increased risk of preeclampsia.
- Increased risk of high blood pressure.
- Increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes after delivery.
Complications of gestational diabetes for the baby
- Increased fetal weight.
- Breathing problems.
- Low blood sugar after delivery.
Gestational Diabetes Treatment Methods
- Medication Treatment
- Regular Exercise
- Following a Healthy, Balanced Diet
- Maintaining a Healthy Weight During Pregnancy
- Regularly Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels
Medications for Gestational Diabetes
Medications must be used under close medical supervision, as they depend on the condition of the mother and fetus.
- Insulin is the first choice for treatment.
- Medications containing metformin
- Medications containing glyburide
Preventing Gestational Diabetes and Reducing Risk Factors
Prevention is always possible, but there are factors that reduce the risk of developing it, such as maintaining a healthy weight before pregnancy and following a diet low in sugar and fat.
The mother should also engage in regular physical activity. Regular checkups are also important, especially if there is a family history of diabetes.
Abstract About Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is a disease that affects mothers for the first time during pregnancy due to hormonal changes that cause high blood sugar levels. Pregnant women should be cautious about obesity and if there is a family history of diabetes or if they have had diabetes in a previous pregnancy.
Although it may occur without any obvious symptoms, neglecting it can cause serious complications for the mother and fetus. To prevent it, it is important to maintain a healthy weight and a balanced lifestyle before and during pregnancy.