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Gestational Diabetes and tips that can help you manage it better Gestational Diabetes and tips that can help you manage it better

Gestational Diabetes and tips that can help you manage it better


Surya Hospital

November 21, 2023 |
9 Min Read | 211

What is Gestational Diabetes?

Diabetes that occurs during pregnancy is known as gestational diabetes due to the hormonal changes that influence insulin sensitivity. Insulin is a hormone that controls blood glucose levels and these blood sugar levels can rise when insulin sensitivity is compromised, leading to gestational diabetes.

Types of Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is classified into two types:

  • Type A1: This is the most prevalent kind of gestational diabetes but it is manageable by diet and exercise.
  • Type A2: This type of gestational diabetes is a more severe kind that requires medication to treat.

Causes of Gestational Diabetes

It is unknown what exactly causes gestational diabetes but hormonal changes during pregnancy are thought to play a role in the development of the illness. The placenta secretes substances that might impair insulin sensitivity, resulting in gestational diabetes.

Gestational Diabetes Risk Factors

Certain risk factors for acquiring gestational diabetes include:

  • Obesity or being overweight before pregnancy
  • Having a diabetes family history
  • Being over the age of 25
  • Having already had gestational diabetes
  • PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome)

Gestational Diabetes Symptoms

It is possible that no symptoms will occur in this condition but some women may suffer the following symptoms:

  • Heightened thirst
  • Urination on a regular basis
  • Fatigue
  • Vision distortion
  • Vomiting and nausea

If you have any of these symptoms, you should consult with your doctor right away

Gestational Diabetes Diagnosis

Gestational diabetes is often diagnosed between weeks 24 and 28 of pregnancy. A glucose tolerance test will be performed by your healthcare practitioner to identify if you have gestational diabetes. Your blood sugar levels are checked after drinking a sugary drink, after a particular length of time.

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should never ignore the above mentioned signs during your pregnancy and consult your doctor immediately If you are at high risk for gestational diabetes, your doctor may advise you to have testing earlier in your pregnancy.

Gestational Diabetes Management Suggestions

The goal of gestational diabetes treatment is to keep blood sugar levels within a normal range. This can aid in the prevention of difficulties during pregnancy and delivery. It might be difficult to manage gestational diabetes, but there are numerous things that you can practice to help keep your blood sugar levels under control:

  1. Eating a balanced diet: Your doctor may advise you to follow a diet low in carbohydrates and high in protein and fibre.
  2. Regular physical activity can help reduce blood sugar levels and increase insulin sensitivity.
  3. Monitoring blood sugar levels: You may be requested to use a glucose meter at home on a regular basis to monitor your blood sugar levels.
  4. Medication: If diet and exercise are insufficient to control gestational diabetes, your doctor may prescribe medication to assist lower blood sugar levels.
  5. Attending every prenatal appointment
  6. Drinking plenty of water to help manage blood sugar levels and avoid dehydration.
  7. Getting adequate sleep
  8. Managing stress by practicing yoga and meditation
  9. Requesting assistance 

Finally, gestational diabetes is a short-term illness that affects some pregnant women. To avoid difficulties during pregnancy and delivery, it is critical to effectively treat gestational diabetes. You can definitely win over this illness if you incorporate the above mentioned tips in daily routine during your gestation period. Consult doctors for normal delivery in Jaipur if you are experiencing any of the signs of gestational diabetes.

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