Gestational Diabetes: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Gestational Diabetes: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Gestational diabetes is a medical condition that occurs during pregnancy, characterized by abnormally high blood sugar levels.

This condition is a common health issue affecting many pregnant women, and as a result, it can have notable effects on both maternal and fetal health. Moreover, addressing it promptly is crucial for ensuring the well-being of both the mother and the baby

Although this case is often well managed, it requires special attention and careful management to maintain the health of both mother and baby.

In this article, we will review the causes of gestational diabetes, its symptoms, potential effects, and effective strategies for managing it and preventing complications to ensure a healthy and safe pregnancy.

What is Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes is a medical condition marked by elevated blood sugar levels during pregnancy, usually occurring in the second or third trimester (between weeks 24 and 28). 

It occurs when the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin to meet the increased needs of the body during pregnancy or when the body cannot use insulin effectively, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.

Causes of Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes happens when hormones produced by the placenta interfere with insulin function, preventing proper regulation of blood sugar levels.

Insulin is a hormone responsible for converting glucose (sugar) from food into energy within the body’s cells, helping to keep blood glucose levels within a normal range.

However, during pregnancy, the placenta secretes hormones that can affect insulin’s effectiveness. These hormones can hinder insulin’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels properly.

As a result, when insulin does not work effectively or is not available in sufficient amounts, sugar accumulates in the blood instead of entering the body’s cells, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.

Women at Risk for Gestational Diabetes

Certain pregnant women are at higher risk for gestational diabetes, including:

• Women who are overweight or obese before pregnancy or at early pregnancy.
• Older women, as the risk increases with advanced maternal age.
• Women with a family history of type 2 diabetes.
• Who have gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy.
• Women with certain medical conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or polycystic ovary syndrome.

Symptoms of Gestational Diabetes

Symptoms of gestational diabetes may be mild or not apparent until testing is done, but some women might experience:

• Severe thirst and the need to drink large amounts of water.
• Frequent urination.
• Persistent hunger even after eating.
• Fatigue, weakness, and general tiredness.
• Blurred vision or difficulty seeing due to changes in blood sugar levels.

When is Gestational Diabetes Diagnosed?

Doctors usually recommend testing for gestational diabetes between weeks 24 and 28 of pregnancy, as this is the optimal time for accurate results. 

However, testing may be done earlier if there are risk factors suggesting a higher likelihood of gestational diabetes.

How is Gestational Diabetes Diagnosed?

this problem is diagnosed using the following methods:

Glucose Challenge Test

Sometimes called a glucose screening test, the healthcare provider has the pregnant woman drink a sugary solution and then measures her blood sugar levels after one hour.

If sugar levels are high, the provider conducts a follow-up oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) to confirm the diagnosis.

Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)

Also known as a two-hour or three-hour glucose test, where the woman fasts for several hours before the test (8 hours). 

She drinks a solution containing a specific amount of glucose, and healthcare providers measure her blood sugar levels after one hour and again after two hours.

How is Gestational Diabetes Managed?

Managing this case requires a comprehensive plan that includes dietary changes, exercise, blood sugar monitoring, and sometimes medication.

Dietary Changes

Control blood sugar levels by consuming foods that do not cause unsafe spikes in blood sugar, such as:

• Eating balanced meals with appropriate amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats.
• Avoiding foods and drinks high in added sugars.
• Eating small, frequent meals to maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Exercise Moderately

Physical activity plays a crucial role in managing gestational diabetes by:

• Improving the body’s response to insulin, allowing it to work more effectively to lower blood sugar levels.
• Enhancing the process of burning blood sugar for energy, which helps lower glucose levels.
• Supporting overall health, improving mood, and increasing energy levels, which can help deal with the challenges of this case.
• Maintaining a healthy weight through exercise can reduce the risk of complications associated with this case.

physical activity

Healthcare providers recommend engaging in moderate physical activity, such as brisk walking or swimming, for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week, after consulting them to ensure the exercise is safe and appropriate.

Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels

Regularly check blood sugar levels using a glucose meter to ensure they are within the normal range. 

Record test results in a log or app, noting the time of the test, meals, and medications that affect blood sugar levels.

Medications

If dietary changes and exercise are not sufficient to control blood sugar levels, the doctor may prescribe insulin to help regulate blood sugar. 

In some cases, doctors may prescribe other medications, but they most commonly recommend insulin.

Regular Doctor Visits

Regular medical visits help monitor the progress of the pregnancy and the overall health of the mother and baby. 

During these visits, healthcare providers check blood pressure, weight, and blood sugar levels and identify any health issues early. They may adjust treatment plans as needed to ensure a positive response to treatment

What are the Complications of Untreated Gestational Diabetes?

Untreated gestational diabetes can lead to several serious complications for both mother and baby, including:

Complications for the Mother

• High blood pressure.
• Preeclampsia.
• Preterm birth.
• Risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Complications for the Baby

• Large size baby, higher risk for difficult delivery 
• Increased risk of cesarean delivery.
• Risk of respiratory distress syndrome.
• Sudden drops in the baby’s blood sugar levels after birth, requiring immediate treatment.
• Higher risk of certain birth defects due to elevated blood sugar levels during pregnancy.

Does Gestational Diabetes Disappear After Birth?

Yes, gestational diabetes often resolves after delivery, with blood sugar levels returning to normal. 

Healthcare providers typically conduct follow-up tests about six to twelve weeks postpartum to ensure that this problem has disappeared.

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Sources:

1. Gestational diabetes. (2024, August 9). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9012
2. Gestational diabetes – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic. (2022, April 9). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/symptoms-causes/syc-20355339