Gestational Diabetes- In a Nutshell by Baby Scan Clinic, Watford

Pregnancy is the most exciting time for every expectant mother but it also brings along many uninvited complications including gestational diabetes. Gestational Diabetes Mellitus is a condition during pregnancy when women develop high blood sugar levels and usually disappears after giving birth. Often, it can be controlled by eating healthy and a regular exercise routine. It can happen at any stage of pregnancy but is more common in the second or third trimester. There are two classes of gestational diabetes:

Class A1 which can be controlled through diet alone.

Class A2 which will need insulin or oral medications to control the condition.

Who can get Gestational Diabetes?

Any pregnant woman can develop gestational diabetes but the risk increases if you have the following:

Body Mass Index is above 30.

You had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy.

The previously delivered baby weighed 10lb or more at birth.

One of your parents or siblings has diabetes.

African- American, Asian, Hispanic or Native American.

Older than 25.

What are the symptoms of Gestational Diabetes?

Usually, it has no symptoms. Most pregnant get to know during routine pregnancy screening test that they have developed it. In extreme cases, they may experience the following:

Urge to pee more often than usual

Fatigue

Dry mouth

Increased thirst and hunger

What is a balanced diet for Gestational Diabetes?

A balanced diet is key to manage gestational diabetes. Special attention needs to be given to carbohydrate, fat and protein intake. Eating at regular intervals also helps to manage blood sugar levels.

Carbohydrates: Most recommended and healthy carbohydrate foods include low sugar fruits, starchy vegetables, brown rice, whole grains, beans, peas, lentils, and other legumes.

Fats: Healthy fats that should be incorporated in your diet are unsalted nuts, avocado, and olive oil.

Protein: Two to three servings of protein daily is essential for pregnant women. Good sources of protein include meats, poultry, fish and tofu.

How is gestational diabetes diagnosed?

If the doctor will get a feeling that you are at an increased risk of gestational diabetes, he will be offered a screening test. The screening test is called an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) which takes about two hours. No preparation is needed for this test. You will be given glucose to drink. After one hour, you will receive a blood test. This is considered one step testing.

If the blood sugar level is high, the doctor may perform a three-hour test which is called two-step testing.

How is gestational diabetes treated?

If you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, you will be required to do the following.

Check your blood sugar levels four or more times a day.

Exercise regularly.

Eat a balanced diet after consulting with a professional dietician.

Do urine tests that check for ketones.

This is all about gestational diabetes in a nutshell. Do not forget to track your baby’s development by undergoing the best 4D baby ultrasound scan in Watford. Have a safe pregnancy.