Gestational Diabetes In Pregnancy: Symptoms & Treatment

Prenatal

oi-Amrisha Sharma

By Amrisha Sharma

Tuesday, May 24, 2011, 18:03

Gestational Diabetes, also known as Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM), is a form of diabetes which affects only the pregnant women. If one suffers from diabetes for the first time during pregnancy then, it is Gestational Diabetes. It is diagnosed by high blood sugar levels in the body when pregnant but it is a temporary phase which goes away in few weeks after the delivery. It is only possible if one takes care of blood sugar levels.

Symptoms of this diabetes are not identified but excessive thirst and frequent urination are considered as the symptoms. It typically occurs during the later stages of pregnancy (prenatal period 23-30 weeks).

How Does It Occur?

The stomach and intestines convert the carbohydrate from the food into glucose which is body's main source of energy. This glucose moves into the blood stream to provide energy through insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. If you are suffering from gestational diabetes, either the insulin production decreases or body cells can't absorb the glucose from the blood which is required for the growth of the baby. The unabsorbed glucose accumulates in the blood thus leading to this ailment or high blood sugar. However, heriditary can also be a reason for the ailment.

This leads to high blood pressure in to-be moms and can also suffer from pre mature delivery. It can also form excess amniotic fluid (fluid surrounding the baby) in the womb.

Effects On The Baby -
It is found that women suffering from this diabetes give birth to healthy babies if their blood sugar levels are balanced. Also, healthy diet, exercise and body weight maintenance are said to improve the newborn baby's health. But some potential risks that may affect the baby are:

1. Macrosomia: the body of the baby is larger than normal and may require surgical procedure of delivery (cesarean) instead of the normal delivery.
2. Imbalance In Mineral Levels: The baby may have low mineral levels in the blood thus causing muscle cramps but the problem can be treated by giving extra minerals to the baby.
3. Hypoglycemia: the blood sugar of the baby is low in the body. It can be treated by breastfeeding which provide glucose to the baby. Glucose can also be transmitted through a tube into the blood if glucose level remains low.
4. Jaundice: The baby can suffer from jaundice where the skin turns yellowish and the whites of the eyes changes color. This condition can be treated and cured.
5. Respiratory Distress Syndrome: breathing problem in the baby which may occur due to the mother's ailment which affects the lungs growth of the baby.
6. Imbalance In Blood Sugar Levels: If the blood sugar levels of both the baby and would be mom is not controlled then chances of stillbirth or death of the newborn is there.
7. Diabetes: Chances of the baby to suffer from diabetes is possible during childhood.

Gestational Diabetes Treatment -

Diet and exercise will cure the ailment. Increase the amount of exercise like walking, yoga. Eat regular meals and keep an eye on fat consumption as heavy weight increases chances of suffering from diabetes. Reduce salt intake and have fruits and vegeatbles. Check blood sugar level at intervals and if the level is high then take insulin injection to lower the level. With time, the ailment can be cured.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.