Gestational diabetes is a condition that can occur during pregnancy, causing your blood sugar levels to rise higher than normal, even if you haven’t previously had diabetes. In the United States, about 5.8-9.2% of pregnant people are diagnosed with this condition.
Typically, gestational diabetes doesn’t show symptoms, but it can lead to a baby with a high birth weight, which might complicate delivery. Your healthcare provider, usually an obstetrician, will screen you for gestational diabetes between the 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy and suggest treatments if you have it. While the condition may sometimes present signs like increased thirst or frequent urination, these are often hard to distinguish from normal pregnancy symptoms.
Healthcare providers usually find gestational diabetes through blood tests after 24 weeks of pregnancy, although earlier testing might be needed if you have certain risk factors or symptoms.
The exact cause of gestational diabetes isn’t fully understood. It affects how your body makes and uses insulin, which is a hormone that helps your body use sugar for energy. One theory is that pregnancy hormones interfere with insulin, leading to a condition called insulin resistance, where the body doesn’t use insulin effectively. Another theory is that a pregnant person’s body might not produce enough insulin to manage their sugar needs, causing blood sugar levels to rise.
Certain factors can increase the risk of developing gestational diabetes. If you’re at risk, it’s a good idea to discuss testing with your obstetrician, who might suggest earlier testing to keep an eye on your blood sugar levels. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening for gestational diabetes starting at 24 weeks of pregnancy.
The initial test involves fasting and drinking a glucose solution, with blood drawn at intervals to check sugar levels. If your levels are high, further testing is done. If a second test also shows high blood sugar, a diagnosis is made.
Managing gestational diabetes often involves lifestyle changes to keep your blood sugar under control, which typically return to normal after giving birth. However, about 50% of women with gestational diabetes may develop type 2 diabetes later in life. Preventive measures include maintaining a healthy weight and exercising before conception, although weight loss isn’t recommended during pregnancy.
Those who have had gestational diabetes are more likely to face certain health challenges, including the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Talk to your doctor about ways to reduce this risk after pregnancy.
Discovering you have gestational diabetes can be concerning, but having a diagnosis means your doctor can monitor your condition more closely and provide treatments to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Staying regular with your doctor’s appointments is crucial for managing your condition and assessing the need for medication.
