Pregnancy and Diabetes
PREGNANCY AND DIABETES: WHAT DO YOU NEED TO KNOW?
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a condition characterized by elevated blood sugar as a result of the pancreas not producing enough insulin or the body’s inability to use the insulin effectively.
Types of Diabetes in Pregnancy
Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes: Types of diabetes diagnosed before pregnancy.
Gestational Diabetes: A type of diabetes that occurs only during pregnancy.
Why is it important?
A pregnancy with diabetes can increase the risk of complications in the mother and baby:
– Large babies
– Birth trauma
– Premature birth
– High blood pressure
Risk Factors
– Family history
– Advanced age (over 35 years)
– History of gestational diabetes in previous pregnancies
– History of delivering a macrosomic baby.
– Obesity or overweight
– Polycystic ovary syndrome
Symptoms
– Frequent urination
– Excessive thirst and hunger
– Fatigue
– Blurred vision
– Frequent infection
Diagnosis and Tests
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Usually performed between 24-28 weeks of pregnancy.
Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) Test: It is a blood test performed in the morning on an empty stomach.
Treatment and Management
Nutrition: A balanced, carbohydrate-controlled diet is important.
Exercise: Physical activity can help stabilize blood sugar.
Blood Glucose Monitoring: Blood glucose checks several times a day are recommended.
Medication and Insulin: Your doctor may prescribe medication or insulin to keep blood sugar under control.
After Birth
In some women with gestational diabetes, blood sugar returns to normal after delivery.
It is important to have annual diabetes screening because the risk of Type 2 diabetes increases after gestational diabetes.
Important Notes
Birth planning is important in a pregnancy with diabetes. Talk to your doctor about the type, timing and method of delivery.
Regular medical check-ups during and after your pregnancy are very important for your health and your baby’s health.
Note: This article is intended to provide general information. Every individual’s health condition is different, so you should always contact your doctor before taking any recommended measures.