In layman’s terms, a diagnosis of gestational or pregnancy diabetes refers to an overly high level of sugar in a pregnant woman’s blood. This hyperglycemia can vary in severity but must be identified for the first time during the pregnancy.
Between 3% and 9% of pregnant women will be affected by this problem.
The effect of estrogen and progesterone hormones negatively affect the secretion of insulin from the pancreas. It usually ensures the balance between glucose, the sugar in a person’s blood.
When a pregnant woman is diagnosed with gestational diabetes, she will be closely monitored and will have more tests and ultrasounds during her pregnancy. This is to ensure the proper evolution of the pregnancy and baby.
Concerning risk factors that may predispose a woman to diabetes during pregnancy:
- Already had gestational diabetes during a previous pregnancy
- Over 35
- Overweight
- Known to have polycystic ovaries
- Takes certain types of medication
- Is part of a population that is at higher risk, for example, Hispanic, Asian or African
Make sure you get informed about this. And to help prevent gestational diabetes, maintain a healthy lifestyle, eat well, sleep well and remain active.
To learn more about the topic:
Read the article Gestational or Pregnancy Diabetes
Watch the video Good Lifestyle Habits and Pregnancy.
Talk soon,
Marie
The Baby Expert
Subscribe to a monthly or quarterly package now to access full videos.
Breaking Your Water
One of a pregnant woman’s greatest fears is breaking their water in public. It can happen, but breaking your water
Being Pregnant
You just learned you are pregnant. You have questions about the changes that will take place during the pregnancy? Along
Prematurity
In this video, I am accompanied by Dr. Véronique G. Dorval, a neonatologist and director of the Neonatal Clinic at
Warning Signs of Imminent Labour
Are you getting close to your delivery date? What signs indicate that you are slowing going into labour? Marie talks