Book an appointment at BlueNetHOSPITALS Los Cabos easily via Whatsapp and save time.
Endocrinology

Gestational Diabetes

The exact cause of gestational diabetes is not yet fully understood.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a condition in which diabetes develops for the first time during pregnancy (gestation). Like other types of diabetes, gestational diabetes affects how cells use sugar (glucose), resulting in elevated blood glucose levels.


Generally, after childbirth, blood glucose levels return to normal. However, it is important to note that women who have experienced gestational diabetes have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future.


Fortunately, during pregnancy, it is possible to manage gestational diabetes and maintain proper blood glucose levels. Keep reading to learn more about this condition.



Symptoms of Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes can manifest with a variety of symptoms that may be subtle or unnoticed. Some women may experience:



Causes of Gestational Diabetes

The exact cause of gestational diabetes is not yet fully understood. However, it has been observed that during gestation, hormonal levels undergo changes that can make it difficult for the body to process glucose, resulting in elevated blood glucose levels efficiently.


Risk factors associated with gestational diabetes include:

  • Being overweight

  • Limited physical activity

  • Pre-existing conditions related to diabetes

  • History of gestational diabetes in previous pregnancies

  • Presence of polycystic ovary syndrome

  • Family history of diabetes

  • Previous delivery of a baby weighing over 9 pounds



Tips for Preventing Gestational Diabetes

While total prevention of gestational diabetes cannot be guaranteed, adopting healthy habits before pregnancy can be highly beneficial in reducing the risk. Consider these tips:

Eat healthy foods

It's essential to follow a healthy meal plan designed for people with gestational diabetes. A Nutritionist can help create a dietary plan that adequately controls blood sugar levels during pregnancy.

Exercise regularly

It is recommended that people engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate to intense physical activity, such as brisk walking, swimming, or participating in active activities, at least five days a week.

Frequently monitor blood sugar

Due to changes in the body's energy needs during pregnancy, blood sugar levels can vary rapidly. Therefore, performing regular sugar checks as directed by your doctor is crucial.

Use insulin, if necessary

If an Endocrinologist prescribes insulin, following medical instructions for its proper use is important.

Perform a diabetes test after pregnancy

You should undergo a diabetes test between 6 and 12 weeks after delivery and periodically every 1 to 3 years. Although gestational diabetes usually disappears after childbirth, there is a high risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future. You can take this lab test at BlueNetHospital's laboratory.



Problems Caused by Gestational Diabetes

Poorly controlled gestational diabetes can cause various problems for both the mother and the baby during pregnancy and delivery, including:

Excessive baby size

Poor diabetes control during pregnancy can cause the baby's blood sugar to increase, resulting in excessive growth.

Cesarean section

Women with poorly controlled gestational diabetes have a higher risk of needing a cesarean section at the time of delivery.

High blood pressure (preeclampsia)

High blood pressure during pregnancy, especially in combination with gestational diabetes, can increase the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby, including premature delivery and seizures during labor.

Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)

Women with gestational diabetes who are treated with insulin are at risk of experiencing low blood sugar levels, which can be dangerous if not properly treated.



When to See a Doctor for Gestational Diabetes?

It is crucial for pregnant women who exhibit symptoms of gestational diabetes or who have risk factors to contact their doctor for proper monitoring and treatment.


BlueNetHospitals offers specialized services for diagnosing and managing gestational diabetes, ensuring the health of both mother and baby during pregnancy and delivery.



BlueNetHospitals

BlueNet Hospitals Blue Net Hospitals