Gestational Diabetes

What Is Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational Diabetes is a type of diabetes that starts during pregnancy.  If you have diabetes, your body isn't able to use the sugar (glucose) in your blood as well as it should, so the level of sugar in your blood becomes higher than normal. Gestational diabetes affects about 4% of all pregnant women.  It usually begins in the fifth or sixth month of pregnancy, between the 24th and 28th weeks. Most often, gestational diabetes goes away after the baby is born.

How Can Gestational Diabetes Affect Me And My Baby?

High sugar levels in your blood can be unhealthy for both you and your baby.  If the diabetes isn't treated, your baby may be more likely to have problems at birth.  For example, your baby may have a low blood sugar level or jaundice, or your baby may weigh much more than normal.  Gestational Diabetes can also affect your health.  For instance, if your baby is very large, you may have a more difficult delivery or need a cesarean section.

What Can I Do If I have Gestational Diabetes?

You will need to follow a diet suggested by your doctor, exercise reularly and have blood tests to check you blood sugar level.  You may also need to take medicine to control your blood sugar level.

What Changes Should I Make In My Diet?

You should avoid eating foods that contain a lot of simple sugars, such as cake, cookies, candy, or ice cream.  Instead, eat foods that contain natural sugars, like fruits.  If you get hungry between meals, eat snacks that are healthy for you, such as raisins, carrots, or fruit.  Complex sugars that are found in foods like pastas, breads, rice, and potatoes are good for both you and your baby.  You should also eat well-balanced meals.  Your provider may ask you to see a dietician to help you plan your meals.

How Is Gestational Diabetes Detected?

Your provider will ask you to have blood tests to check your blood sugar level.  These tests will let your provider know if your diet and exercise are keeping your blood sugar at normal levels.