Pregnancy is a uniquely beautiful experience for every woman. However, it does come with its own set of challenges. One of these challenges is gestational diabetes, which affects up to 14% of pregnancies.

Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that develops during pregnancy and can have an impact on the health of both the mom and the baby.

How Does Pregnancy Diabetes Develop?

Pregnancy diabetes, also known as gestational diabetes, occurs when your body can’t produce enough insulin to meet the increased demand during pregnancy. Insulin is a hormone that helps your body control blood sugar levels.

When insulin doesn’t work correctly, it can lead to high blood sugar levels, which can have negative effects on your body and your baby.

What Are the Risk Factors for Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes can happen to any pregnant woman, but some women are more at risk than others. The main risk factors for gestational diabetes include:.

Being overweight or obese before pregnancy
Having a family history of type 2 diabetes
Being over the age of 25
Having previously given birth to a baby that weighed more than 9 pounds
Having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

What Are the Possible Complications for Your Baby?

Untreated gestational diabetes can lead to several complications for your baby, such as:.

Macrosomia: This is a condition where your baby is exceptionally large. If your baby is larger than average, it can make vaginal delivery more difficult and increase the risk of birth injury. It can also increase the likelihood of needing a C-section.
Hypoglycemia: After birth, your baby’s blood sugar levels can drop rapidly and significantly. This can lead to seizures, jaundice, breathing problems, and even brain damage.
Breathing difficulties: In rare cases, gestational diabetes can cause your baby to produce too much insulin in the womb. This can result in breathing problems at birth.
Stillbirth: In very severe cases, gestational diabetes can increase the risk of stillbirth.

What Are the Possible Complications for You?

Gestational diabetes can also lead to several potential complications for the mother, such as:.

Preeclampsia: This is a potentially dangerous condition in which high blood pressure and damage to organs such as the liver and kidneys can occur.
Preterm delivery: Gestational diabetes can increase the risk of preterm delivery, which can lead to complications for the baby.
C-section: If your baby is significantly larger than average, you may need to have a C-section delivery.
Type 2 diabetes: Gestational diabetes increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

How Can You Reduce the Risks of Gestational Diabetes for Your Baby?

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of complications for your baby, such as:.

Maintain healthy blood sugar levels: By managing your blood sugar levels, you can decrease the chances of complications for your baby. Make sure you follow your doctor’s advice for blood sugar testing and take any medications prescribed.
Maintain a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet that is rich in nutrients and low in processed foods can help regulate your blood sugar levels.
Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels and prevent complications.
Manage your weight: Keeping your weight within a healthy range during pregnancy can help reduce the risk of gestational diabetes.

When Should You See a Doctor?

It’s important to speak to your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:.

Excessive thirst
Frequent urination
Nausea and vomiting
Blurred vision
Fatigue

While these symptoms are not exclusive to gestational diabetes, they can be early indicators of the condition. Speak to your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

Conclusion

While gestational diabetes can be a significant challenge during pregnancy, there are steps you can take to reduce its risks and protect your baby’s health.

By working closely with your doctor and following their advice, you can help ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy for both you and your baby.