Gestational Diabetes: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Gestational diabetes may be defined as a form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy. Although gestational diabetes usually resolves after the baby is born, it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later on.

In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment of gestational diabetes, as well as some tips for preventing it.

CAUSES  | RISK FACTORS | SYMPTOMS  | DIAGNOSIS |TREATMENT | PREVENTION

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Causes of Gestational Diabetes

The pathophysiology of gestational diabetes involves a combined mechanism of insulin resistance and beta cell dysfunction in the pancreas. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood glucose levels, and when the body becomes resistant to insulin, it is less effective at reducing blood glucose. When the beta cells of the pancreas cannot  function properly they cannot  produce enough insulin to meet the bodily demand.

During pregnancy, hormones produced by the placenta can interfere with insulin action, leading to insulin resistance. It can cause blood glucose level to rise which is GDM. In some cases, beta cell dysfunction may also be a factor in the development of GDM.

Gestational diabetes can cause serious complications  for both the mother and the baby. High blood sugar levels in the mother can lead to complications such as pre-eclampsia and premature delivery, while the baby may be at risk of developing respiratory distress syndrome, jaundice, and low blood glucose levels .

Risk factors for gestational diabetes include:

• Being overweight or obese before pregnancy having BMI >25
• Having Diabetes Mellitus in the family
• age > 25 years
• Having previous history of gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy
• Having a racial background of African American, Hispanic, Native American, or Asian descent

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Symptoms of Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes may remain asymptomatic for which routine screening is necessary during pregnancy. However, some symptoms may be noted:

•          Increased feeling of thirst
•          Increased frequency of urination
•          Fatigue / tiredness
•          Blurry vision
•          Nausea and vomiting
•          Frequent infections, such as UTI

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should speak with your healthcare provider right away.

Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is typically diagnosed between  the weeks of 24 and 28 during pregnancy. Your healthcare provider may order a oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), which involves drinking a sugary drink and having your blood glucose levels checked at certain intervals.

If your blood glucose levels are found to be higher than normal, your healthcare provider may diagnose you with gestational diabetes and recommend a treatment plan.

Treatment of Gestational Diabetes

The goal of treatment for gestational diabetes is to keep blood gluocese levels within a normal range. This can be achieved through a combination of diet, physical  exercise, and medication, if necessary.

•           Diet: Your healthcare provider may recommend a diet that is low in carbohydrates and high in protein and fiber. You may need to monitor your blood glucose levels regularly and adjust your diet as needed.
•          Exercise: Regular exercise can help control blood glucose levels and improve overall health during pregnancy. Your healthcare provider may recommend 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, most of days of the week.
•          Medication: In some cases, medication may help to keep blood sugar in normal levels. Your healthcare provider may prescribe insulin or other medications(eg Metformin) to help manage gestational diabetes.

Preventing Gestational Diabetes

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent gestational diabetes, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk:

•          Maintain an ideal weight before planning for pregnancy
•          Eat a balanced diet that is low in sugar and high in protein and fiber
•          Do light Exercise regularly
•          Go for routine checkups and get  screened for gestational diabetes between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy

Conclusion

In summary, gestational diabetes is a serious condition that can affect pregnant women. It is important to be aware of the risk factors and symptoms of gestational diabetes and to get screened for it during pregnancy. With proper treatment and management, most women with gestational diabetes can have healthy pregnancies and babies. By following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight, you can reduce your risk of developing gestational diabetes and other health problems. If you have any concerns about gestational diabetes or your pregnancy, speak with your healthcare provider for guidance and support.