Diabetes in Pregnancy

Definition- Diabetes in pregnancy is called as Gestational Diabetes.
Implications on Your Health and baby-

It causes high blood sugar that can affect your pregnancy and your baby's health.Such pregnancy is considered as a high risk pregnancy and needs to be monitored carefully.It needs a multidisciplinary approach demanding seeking opinion of Endocrinologist.Any pregnancy complication is concerning.

Preventive measures-

Expectant moms can help control gestational diabetes by eating healthy foods, exercising and, if necessary, taking medication. Controlling blood sugar can prevent a difficult birth and keep you and your baby healthy.
Your doctor may refer you to additional health professionals who specialize in diabetes, such as an endocrinologist, a registered dietitian or a diabetes educator. They can help you learn to manage your blood sugar level during your pregnancy.

Signs and Symptoms-

If sugar is controlled then it may not cause evident signs and symptoms
Reach Doctor at earliest-rather preconceptionally only.If you develop gestational diabetes, you may need more-frequent checkups. These are most likely to occur during the last three months of pregnancy, when your doctor will monitor your blood sugar level and your baby's health.

Post Pregnancy effects-

In gestational diabetes, blood sugar usually returns to normal soon after delivery. But if you've had gestational diabetes, you're at risk for type 2 diabetes.
To make sure your blood sugar level has returned to normal after your baby is born, your health care team will check your blood sugar right after delivery and again in six weeks. Once you've had gestational diabetes, it's a good idea to have your blood sugar level tested regularly.
The frequency of blood sugar tests will in part depend on your test results soon after you deliver your baby.

Regards
Dr Richa Sharma