During pregnancy, a woman's body experiences numerous hormonal changes that can affect how the body processes glucose. In some cases, these changes can lead to the development of gestational diabetes , a temporary condition that, if not managed properly, can cause complications for both mother and baby.
If you want to learn more about gestational diabetes , keep reading. Here you'll find all the information you need to understand it, recognize its symptoms, and learn how to prevent it.
What is gestational diabetes?
Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy in women who have not previously had a history of the condition. It occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels during pregnancy. This condition can increase the risk of premature birth, preeclampsia, and high birth weight.
Gestational diabetes is usually diagnosed in the second trimester and disappears after delivery. However, it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future. Furthermore, if not treated properly, it can lead to complications such as fetal macrosomia (an overweight baby), neonatal hypoglycemia , and an increased risk of childhood obesity.
Causes of gestational diabetes
The causes of gestational diabetes (during pregnancy) are related to hormonal changes that affect insulin production and action. Some of the main reasons a woman may develop gestational diabetes include:
- Insulin resistance : During pregnancy, the placenta produces hormones that can reduce the effectiveness of insulin, making it difficult to regulate blood glucose.
- Genetic factors : Having a family history of diabetes increases the risk of developing gestational diabetes, suggesting a hereditary predisposition.
- Overweight or obesity : Excess body fat hinders the action of insulin and can generate inflammation that affects glucose metabolism.
- Pregnancy in advanced age : Women over 35 years of age are more likely to develop this condition, due to natural metabolic changes associated with age.
Symptoms of diabetes during pregnancy
In many cases, gestational diabetes doesn't present obvious symptoms and is only detected through medical tests. However, in some cases, women may experience symptoms of diabetes, such as:
- Increased thirst and the need to urinate frequently due to the elimination of glucose in the urine.
- Extreme fatigue or lack of energy , caused by the body's inability to use glucose efficiently.
- Blurred vision, a result of fluctuating blood sugar levels.
- Nausea or dizziness without an apparent cause, which may be a sign of blood sugar dysregulation.
- Recurrent skin or urinary tract infections due to excess glucose in the body, which promotes bacterial growth.
If you notice any of these signs, it's important to see your doctor as soon as possible.
Gestational diabetes tests and exams
To diagnose gestational diabetes , doctors perform specific tests between weeks 24 and 28 of pregnancy . Common tests include:
- Glucose tolerance test (GTT) : This involves drinking a sugar solution and measuring how the body responds at different time intervals.
- Fasting glucose test : Blood sugar levels are measured after an overnight fast to assess the body's ability to maintain normal glucose levels.
These tests are essential for detecting gestational diabetes early and taking appropriate measures to control it.
Table of glucose levels in pregnant women
Knowing normal glucose levels is key to managing gestational diabetes . Here's a reference chart for glucose levels in pregnant women:
| Proof | Normal Level | Gestational Diabetes |
| Fasting glucose | Less than 92 mg/dL | 92 mg/dL or more |
| 1 hour after ingesting glucose | Less than 180 mg/d | 180 mg/dL or more |
|
2 hours after ingestion glucose |
Less than 153 mg/dL | 153 mg/dL or more |
If the values are above normal ranges, the doctor may recommend dietary changes and other treatments.
Treatment of gestational diabetes
For gestational diabetes, treatment varies depending on the case, but generally includes:
- Balanced diet : Avoid excessive consumption of refined carbohydrates and opt for foods rich in fiber, such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
- Regular exercise : Activities such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga are recommended, which can help regulate glucose and improve insulin sensitivity.
- Glucose monitoring : It is also recommended to use a glucometer to measure blood sugar levels and keep a record of daily measurements.
- Medication : In some cases, your doctor may prescribe insulin or other medications if diet and exercise aren't enough to control your glucose levels.
Preventing diabetes during pregnancy
Although it's unfortunately not always possible to prevent gestational diabetes, there are healthy habits that can reduce your risk of developing it. For example:
- Maintain a healthy weight before and during pregnancy to reduce insulin resistance.
- Follow a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and complex carbohydrates.
- Exercise regularly , at least 30 minutes daily, to improve insulin sensitivity.
- Monitor blood sugar levels regularly, especially if you have a family history of diabetes.
Take care of your health with Glucody's specialized products
At Glucody, we specialize in offering practical solutions for diabetes management. If you're pregnant and need accurate glucose monitoring, we have a variety of products designed to make your daily life easier.
From glucose sensor protectors and patches that help keep your device secure and in place, to cases and accessories that offer added comfort for continuous monitoring and personalize your diabetes devices .
Don't let gestational diabetes affect your well-being. Take control with the right products and follow your doctor's recommendations to ensure a healthy pregnancy.