Diabetes that occurs during pregnancy is called gestational diabetes. If managed carefully during pregnancy, diabetes has no long-term effects on the fetus. However, if gestational diabetes is left untreated, moderate to severe fetal effects can occur. Untreated diabetes can lead to infant hypoglycemia, macrosomia, birth defects, and even stillbirth. For this reason, it is essential that gestational diabetes is carefully monitored throughout pregnancy.
Oversized Baby (Macrosomia)
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, fetal macrosomia is diagnosed if an unborn baby weighs more than 8 lbs. 13 oz. An oversized baby can lead to complications during childbirth, as the infant may have difficulty fitting through the birth canal. Macrosomia increases the risk of cesarean section, as well as the risk of injury to the mother or child during vaginal birth. If a mother is diagnosed with gestational diabetes, the weight of the fetus will be monitored carefully. If macrosomia develops, the doctor may perform a cesarean section.
Birth Defects
Poor control of blood sugar during the first trimester of pregnancy can lead to birth defects. While diabetes does not cause chromosomal birth defects such as Down syndrome, it can lead to defects in the heart, respiratory system and other vital organs. For this reason, many obstetricians check for excess sugar in the urine at each prenatal appointment, so that high blood sugar levels can be corrected quickly.
Hypoglycemia
If blood sugar is not properly controlled during pregnancy, the unborn child becomes accustomed to high blood sugar levels. After birth, when the baby is no longer getting nutrition through the amniotic fluid, these sugar levels come down quickly, and hypoglycemia may occur. For this reason, infants born to diabetic mothers should have their blood sugar checked regularly after birth. If hypoglycemia occurs, the infant may receive a glucose injection to help stabilize their blood sugar level.
Stillbirth
If blood sugar levels are consistently high during the pregnancy, the fetus may receive improper nutrition and oxygen. These deficiencies can lead to fetal demise. Stillbirth occurs more commonly for mothers who had diabetes pre-pregnancy, but may be a possibility for mothers with gestational diabetes. It is extremely important that mothers diagnosed with gestational diabetes receive proper prenatal care and blood sugar monitoring to avoid persistent high blood sugar levels.
