Illnesses and Infections During Pregnancy: Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes affects only women who are pregnant. It influences the way the body utilizes sugar, and can be harmful to an unborn baby. The illness is not generally long lasting, and can be managed. This guide covers the basics of gestational diabetes, symptoms and treatment options. Be sure to click on the blue links, which are provided to give you more detailed information. If you think you have gestational diabetes, or any illness or infection during pregnancy, see your doctor as soon as possible.

Background

Occurring usually several weeks after the twentieth week of pregnancy, gestational diabetes causes hormones in the placenta to trigger increases in blood sugar levels. According to the Mayo Clinic, this increased blood sugar can influence the growth of the developing baby. The mother is unlikely to experience any problems because of the illness.

Symptoms

Typically, pregnant women do not experience symptoms of gestational diabetes, however, extreme thirst and frequent urination can be signs. The best way to determine if you are at risk is to get checked early in the pregnancy, or while you are trying to conceive. Blood sugar will be monitored frequently, if gestational diabetes is suspected or diagnosed. Women older than twenty five are at increased risk of developing this illness during pregnancy. If she has had it during a previous pregnancy, the mother is more likely to get it again. Also, overweight women are at a higher risk of gestational diabetes.

Treatment

Gestational diabetes can be treated in any combination of three factors, depending on the severity of the illness. The first method is altering diet. Pregnant women should decrease their intake of carbohydrates. Expecting mothers should eat three small meals each day, with a couple of snacks in between. They should also remain active, or increase activity such as walking and or swimming. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains should be part of all pregnant women's diets. Finally, if diet and exercise do not yield sufficient results, insulin may be administered.

Complications

If left unchecked, gestational diabetes can cause some serious problems for a baby. Babies are likely to be larger and prone to C-section births. Hypoglycemia, respiratory distress syndrome, jaundice, diabetes later in life, developmental problems and rarely, death can occur as a result of gestational diabetes.

Further Reading

The following resources will provide you will all of the information you need on gestational diabetes.

American Diabetes Association - Gestational Diabetes

Mayo Clinic - Gestational Diabetes

National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse - Gestational Diabetes