Understanding gestational diabetes: symptoms, diet, and management

Gestational diabetes is a condition that affects many pregnant women and needs to be carefully managed. Learn about gestational diabetes, including symptoms, dietary recommendations, and how it can be managed.

What is gestational diabetes?

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. It occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin to meet the needs of pregnancy, leading to high blood glucose (sugar) levels. For most women, gestational diabetes is temporary and usually resolves itself after the baby is born. It does, however, need to be carefully monitored and managed to prevent complications for both mother and baby.

The causes of gestational diabetes aren’t yet fully understood, but certain factors increase the risk. If your weight is above a healthy range, have a family history of diabetes, have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or are older (particularly over the age of 40), your risk of developing gestational diabetes is greater. There are also hormonal changes during pregnancy that can interfere with insulin function.

Gestational diabetes symptoms

It’s important to learn to recognise the symptoms of gestational diabetes. Talk to your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms:

• increased thirst
• frequent urination
• fatigue

These symptoms may be subtle, and you may mistake them for common discomforts many women experience during pregnancy. That’s why it’s important to make sure you’re regularly screened and monitored for gestational diabetes. You should be tested at the 24-to-28 week mark of pregnancy, or earlier if you have one or more of the risk factors.

Your doctor will usually recommend a glucose tolerance test to measure how your body processes sugar and determine if you have gestational diabetes.

Managing gestational diabetes

If you develop gestational diabetes, you will need to monitor and manage your blood glucose levels to make sure they’re within a healthy range. Your doctor will guide you on how often you should check your blood glucose and what’s a healthy range. Some women will require medication or insulin therapy to control their blood glucose levels. Your doctor will determine the best course of action based on your individual needs.

Living well with gestational diabetes is more than just managing blood glucose levels; it is about your overall health and wellbeing. Here are some tips for a healthy pregnancy:

Balanced Diet

Follow a gestational diabetes diet as advised by your doctor. This usually includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods like whole grains, lean proteins, and fresh vegetables and fruit. Avoid foods high in sugar and refined carbohydrates.

Regular Exercise

Do regular safe, moderate exercise such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga. Regular physical activity helps regulate blood glucose levels and is good for your overall health.

Mental and Emotional Wellbeing

Managing gestational diabetes can be stressful, and stress may cause changes in your blood glucose levels. Take care of your mental health with relaxation techniques, support from loved ones, or a chat with a mental health professional. Find out how Medibank can support with your mental and emotional wellbeing.

Monitoring and Medication

Regularly monitor your blood glucose levels. If you’re taking medication or insulin therapy for gestational diabetes, follow your doctor’s recommendations.

Impact on mother and baby

Gestational diabetes can impact both you and your baby. Potential complications for you include an increased risk of high blood pressure and preeclampsia – a serious complication arising from high blood pressure. Additionally, women with gestational diabetes are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes later in life.

Risks for baby include higher birth weight, which can lead to delivery complications. Babies born to mothers with gestational diabetes may also have low blood glucose levels at birth and a higher risk of developing obesity and type 2 diabetes in the long term.

It’s important to manage gestational diabetes to ensure the health and wellbeing of both you and your baby.

Looking ahead: postpartum care

It’s important to continue to monitor your health after your baby is born. This will help manage your long-term health and reduce the risk of you developing type 2 diabetes.

Postpartum Glucose Tolerance Test

Your doctor may recommend a glucose tolerance test six to twelve weeks after delivery to ensure your blood glucose levels have returned to normal.

Healthy Lifestyle

Continue to follow a healthy diet and exercise routine. Maintain a healthy weight and stay active.

Regular Check-ups

Schedule regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your blood glucose levels and overall health.

Breastfeeding

Consider breastfeeding, if possible, as it can help regulate your blood glucose levels and has numerous health benefits for both you and your baby.

Gestational diabetes is a manageable condition. If you understand the symptoms, follow a healthy diet, and work closely with your healthcare team, you can help ensure a healthy pregnancy and a bright, healthy start for your baby.