Gestational Diabetes

Gestational Diabetes

Since Gestational Diabetes doesn’t always present itself with symptoms it is vital to know if you fall into any of the risk factors that are associated with GDM. Being pregnant means plenty of visits with your doctor so if there are any concerns on your part, inform him or her and discuss them.
There some signs that may occur during your pregnancy that can alert you to having it. These are the same as those found in Type Two Diabetes, so take a moment to refer to all articles written on it.

Signs and Symptoms may include:

-Being over the age 35.
-Being in a population that is considered of higher risk, Native Americans, Latinos, Asian Americans, Alaska Natives and Pacific Islanders.
-Obesity
-Excessive thirst
-Excessive Urination
-Weight Loss
-No loss in appetite
-Fatigue
-Vomiting
-Nausea and vomiting
-Re occurring infections of the bladder, skin and Vagina infections
-Blurred Vision
-Having a history of polycystic ovary syndrome.
-Hirsutism which is an excessive amount of body and facial hair.
-Acanthosis Nigricans. This is a skin disorder that is characterized by having dark patches of the skin.

GDM can cause several risks for both baby and mother and should be taken seriously. It is manageable and is akin to treatment measures and care as that of Type Two Diabetes.

The first step in managing GDM is to redefine your current lifestyle habits with a better planned course of meals and exercise as recommended by your Doctor. This can prevent or even reverse GDM and Type Two. A dietician is another perfect choice in aiding you. They are equipped with tons of information and references to help you keep your Blood Glucose Levels in balance. At this special time it is still vital that the appropriate weight gain is achieved, and that you and baby are receiving adequate nutrition.

If these methods of change are not producing the desired results, where your Blood Glucose levels are not within the target range, there are certain types of insulin available that will be able to be used safely. It normally takes two weeks of lifestyle change to see if you are progressing as desired.

The Risks with GDM:

-Higher birth weight
-The child will be at a higher risk for obesity
-Jaundice
-Hypoglycemia
-Breathing Problems
-Glucose Intolerance

The cause of GDM is not yet known but some clues as to why this occurs are available. What is happening is that the Placenta that is supporting the growing baby is producing hormones. These hormones begin to block the insulin in the mother’s body, thus creating Insulin resistance. The Pancreas begins to work overtime to produce insulin but the Blood Glucose does not lower. Even though insulin does not cross to the placenta, glucose and other nutrients do, so what ends up happening is that extra glucose goes through the placenta and the baby develops high Blood Glucose Levels.
GDM starts when the mother’s body is no longer able to make use of all of the insulin it needs for the pregnancy. With this the insulin cannot leave the body and be changed into the required energy thus it builds up and causes high levels leading to Hyperglycemia.

GDM occurs in the late stages of pregnancy after the baby has been formed. This is good because it does not cause birth defects, it can however cause “Macrosomia” or a fat baby.
A large baby makes birthing more difficult and a natural birth may not be an option but a caesarean could be required. This would b done not only to help the mother but to prevent any damage to the baby’s shoulders.

Some Good News

-With the proper treatment and medical care, it is treatable.
-Blood Glucose tends to return to normal after the birth.
-Breast feeding reduces the risk for subsequent diabetes in the baby.
-Following a healthy lifestyle will not only enable you to have more energy for your child but will prevent you from developing Type Two Diabetes.
-You can be screened on your regular checkups with your doctor for the development of Pre Diabetes and Type Two Diabetes
-When planning your next child your doctor will help you take the necessary steps ahead of time to ensure a healthy pregnancy such as taking folic acid and checking your Blood Glucose Levels.