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Pregnancy Surprise: What is Gestational Diabetes?
23 May
Summary
- Gestational diabetes affects 8% of U.S. and 22% of Indian pregnant women.
- Hormonal changes around week 24 cause insulin resistance and GDM.
- Babies face risks like macrosomia, hypoglycemia, and future diabetes.
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a temporary rise in blood sugar occurring during pregnancy, impacting about 8% of pregnant women in the U.S. and a significant 22% in India. It typically develops around the 24th week due to placental hormones that disrupt insulin's effectiveness, leading to insulin resistance.
While GDM doesn't typically cause birth defects as it appears after the first trimester, elevated maternal blood sugar can lead to macrosomia in the baby. This can complicate labor, necessitate a C-section, and increase risks of hypoglycemia, breathing difficulties, and future obesity or type 2 diabetes for the infant.
The condition also carries long-term risks for mothers, as it can evolve into persistent diabetes postpartum. Managing GDM involves daily blood sugar monitoring, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and prescribed insulin if needed. Postpartum follow-up screenings are crucial for early detection of ongoing metabolic risks.
