1. Motherhood May Bear Diabetes
A small percentage of women will have gestational diabetes during pregnancy. It isn't clear what causes it, but researchers believe hormones from the placenta block the mother's insulin production. Gestational diabetes will not cause the same type of birth defects as babies whose mothers had diabetes before pregnancy. Just remember this is a temporary situation and it will go away after the baby is born.
2. Pregnancy Symptoms Feel the Same
Many women experience no symptoms with the onset of gestational diabetes. However, your doctor will still test your blood sugar level with a finger prick during the 24th week of pregnancy. This is when gestational diabetes usually develops. Some symptoms are similar to the symptoms of pregnancy, such as increased urination and thirst, nausea and vomiting, fatigue and vaginal yeast infections. If a mother receives a gestational diabetes diagnosis, she will most likely have it during subsequent pregnancies.
3. Take Control With a Diabetic Diet
If your insulin levels are elevated, your doctor may put you on a diabetic diet approved by the American Diabetes Association. The basic diet consists of a minimal amount of carbohydrates, sugar, salt and fat. You'll eat an increased amount of fiber, such as fruits and vegetables, and an increased amount of complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains. Make sure you eat your meals and frequent snacks at about the same time each day. Don't be alarmed if you begin losing weight on this diet. It is common and sometimes recommended. Your doctor will monitor your weight loss during your pregnancy as she does your blood sugar. In some extreme cases, you may need insulin shots.
4. Get Your Body Moving
Try an exercise program that your doctor or midwife approves. Even light yoga, walking or isometric exercises can help lower your blood sugar. Exercise can also boost your mood, give you more energy, help alleviate constipation and relieve swelling. If you begin to have regular contractions, experience lower back or abdominal discomfort, or notice any bleeding, call your doctor immediately.
5. Take Care of Your Unborn Baby
Since there is no known prevention of gestational diabetes, you should be aware of your body and call your doctor if you experience blood sugar drops. If it goes untreated, gestational diabetes can cause the baby's glucose levels to become elevated, which will cause the excess insulin to be stored as fat. Newborns born to mothers with untreated or poorly treated gestational diabetes are more likely to be born with low blood sugar, breathing problems, obesity and a risk of having type 2 diabetes in the future. In addition, if the baby is too large, the risk of a cesarean section increases.
