Gestational Diabetes

Definition

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is diabetes that happens when a woman is pregnant. Diabetes is when there is a higher level of glucose in the blood than is normal. Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose move from the blood to the cells where it can be used for energy. Problems making or using insulin causes the glucose to build up in the blood. Hormones from the placenta can also block insulin from working as it should. The levels often return to normal after delivery.

Large Baby Due to Gestational Diabetes

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Causes

GDM is caused by reduced sensitivity to insulin during pregnancy.

Risk Factors

Women who are overweight or obese are at higher risk. It is also more common in older women and those who are Latino, Native American, Asian, Black, or Pacific Islander. Other things that may raise the risk are:

• Family members with type 2 diabetes
• Having GDM in the past
• Heart disease
• Low HDL ('good') cholesterol and high triglycerides
• Polycystic ovary syndrome
• Lack of activity

Symptoms

GDM often does not cause any symptoms. Those who do may have:

• Increased urination
• Thirst
• Nausea
• Weakness

Diagnosis

GDM testing is done as part of routine prenatal screening at 24 to 28 weeks of pregnancy. It may be done earlier for women who are at high risk.

A woman does not need to fast before the glucose screening test. A special glucose drink will be given. One hour later, blood glucose levels will be tested to look for changes.

Women who have a high blood glucose screening test may need to have a 3-hour glucose tolerance test. She will not be able to eat or drink for 8 to 14 hours before the test. Blood will be drawn before the test. A special glucose drink will be given. Blood will be drawn every hour for three more hours to look for changes.

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to return blood glucose levels to normal. This will help keep the mother and the baby healthy.

A blood glucose monitor will be used to check the levels throughout the day. The level will help plan meals, activities, and medicine. A woman's urine may also need to be tested for ketones. These are made when the body breaks down fat instead of carbohydrates for energy. Large amounts of ketones can lead to a problem called ketoacidosis. It can harm the woman and the growing baby.

GDM may be treated with:

Diet

A dietitian can help make a healthy meal plan. It will focus on eating 3 meals and 2 to 3 snacks per day. Carbohydrates can cause blood sugar to rise. A woman will be given a daily carbohydrate goal.

Exercise

Physical activity can make it easier for the body to use glucose. Exercising 2.5 hours per week can help.

Medicine

Some women may need insulin injections. Others may need to take anti-diabetes medicine.

Prevention

The risk of GDM can be lowered with healthy lifestyle, such as:

• Not smoking
• Exercising
• Eating healthy foods
• Reaching a healthy weight before getting pregnant