Pregnancy is a beautiful phase in every woman’s life. However, it can be accompanied by several health issues. One such condition is pregnancy diabetes, also known as gestational diabetes, which affects around 7 percent of all pregnancies worldwide.

It is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy when the body cannot produce enough insulin. This leads to high blood sugar levels, which can cause complications for both the mother and the baby.

In this article, we will delve into the factors that increase a mother’s risk of developing pregnancy diabetes and what she can do to manage it.

What is Pregnancy Diabetes?

Pregnancy diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. In normal pregnancies, the body produces insulin, a hormone that helps convert glucose into energy for the body.

Pregnancy hormones can interfere with the way insulin works, leading to high blood sugar levels. Pregnancy diabetes usually develops in the second or third trimester and disappears after delivery. However, women who have had pregnancy diabetes are at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

What are the Risk Factors for Pregnancy Diabetes?

Not all women develop pregnancy diabetes during their pregnancy. The following factors increase the risk:.

Overweight or obesity before pregnancy
Family history of diabetes
Age over 25 years
History of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
History of gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy
History of giving birth to a baby weighing over 9 lbs (4 kg)

When is a Mother Most at Risk for Pregnancy Diabetes?

A mother is most at risk of developing pregnancy diabetes in the second or third trimester when the placenta produces hormones that increase insulin resistance.

The pancreas tries to compensate by producing more insulin, but sometimes it cannot keep up, leading to high blood sugar levels. Women who have risk factors for pregnancy diabetes should get screened early in their pregnancy and follow their doctor’s recommendations for screening intervals.

Complications of Pregnancy Diabetes

Untreated pregnancy diabetes can lead to several complications for both the mother and the baby. Some of these include:.

Pre-eclampsia
Babies born large for gestational age (LGA), which can lead to birth injuries and difficulties during delivery
Low blood sugar levels in newborns
Babies born with respiratory distress syndrome
Increased risk of stillbirth

Management of Pregnancy Diabetes

The good news is that with proper management, women with pregnancy diabetes can deliver healthy babies. The following steps can help manage pregnancy diabetes:.

Monitoring blood sugar levels regularly
Following a healthy meal plan
Exercising regularly
Taking medication, if required

Conclusion

Pregnancy diabetes is a common condition that can lead to complications for both the mother and the baby.

Women who have risk factors for pregnancy diabetes should be screened early in their pregnancy and follow their doctor’s recommendations for screening intervals. With proper management, women with pregnancy diabetes can deliver healthy babies. If you are pregnant, speak to your doctor about how you can reduce your risk of developing pregnancy diabetes and what you can do to manage it.