Gestational diabetes

Human body is an amazing creation and its most amazing activity is bearing a child. Pregnancy is the most joyful, exciting yet tense time for a body. It goes through major changes to bear and nurture a new life. These changes can lead to the development of a temporary condition known as gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). This essay is a guide offering a clear picture on what gestational diabetes is, tips and care to manage it.

What is gestational diabetes ?

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a kind of diabetes which develops during pregnancy in women who don’t already have it. It develops when the body fails to produce enough insulin or cannot use the produced insulin effectively. Gestational diabetes mellitus can affect any pregnant woman and there is no specific reason why.

What are the risk factors ?

• Family history with type 1 or type 2 diabetes can elevate the risk of gestational diabetes.
• Being overweight or underweight before pregnancy can put you at risk of developing gestational diabetes.
• If there is a previous history of gestational diabetes in a prior pregnancy, you’re at higher risk of developing it.
• Having Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can increase the risk as well.
• The risk of developing gestational diabetes mellitus can increase with the maternal age.

Symptoms of gestational diabetes mellitus :

Gestational diabetes mellitus often has no major symptoms. Therefore routine blood sugar screening during pregnancy is very crucial for timely detection and treatment. The common signs are

• Excessive thirst and urination
• fatigue
• blurred vision
• frequent yeast infections

Managing gestational diabetes :

Gestational diabetes mellitus can be managed effectively with some changes such as,

• Dietary changes are necessary to help manage gestational diabetes. Including fruits, vegetables, and proteins can help manage it. Excluding sugary foods can help control the spike of blood sugar levels.
• Regular physical activity helps our body use insulin properly and manage diabetes.
• Monitoring blood sugar levels regularly is advised by experts. It is necessary as it’ll help you refine your diets and activities.
• It is advised to take prescribed medications regularly to avoid any risk of elevating the blood sugar level.

Postpartum care :

Although, gestational diabetes mellitus is a temporary condition, it is necessary to keep in mind a few things after delivery of the baby, such as :

• Regular blood sugar level monitoring
• Gestational diabetes increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, taking preventive measures helps prevent it.
• Breastfeeding is highly encouraged after delivery, as it offers various benefits for both the mother and baby, but medications for gestational diabetes must not be ideal for Breastfeeding. So it is necessary to consult a doctor.

In conclusion, gestational diabetes mellitus can be an overwhelming experience but if taken care one can manage it. It is necessary to educate yourself and focus on healthy habits to manage it. Take major steps to control and prevent gestational diabetes mellitus to keep yourself and your baby safe.