Gestational diabetes usually develops during the second trimester, possibly as early as week 20, but can develop much later as well. Occasionally, there may be symptoms such as excessive thirst and urination, but often there are no symptoms at all. Because of this, screening for gestational diabetes is a routine and important part of prenatal care. Screening is conducted by testing blood sugar levels before and after drinking a very sweet and concentrated glucose solution. If the blood sugar level is deemed too high after the second blood test, a follow-up test will be arranged. For the follow-up test, the patient is asked to fast overnight and is then given an even more concentrated glucose solution, followed by three hourly blood tests to monitor blood sugar readings. If two or more of these are abnormally high, the patient is diagnosed with gestational diabetes.
Treatment involves keeping blood sugar within normal levels through dietary practice, exercise, and blood sugar monitoring during pregnancy. If these methods are not sufficient to keep blood sugar within a safe range, insulin injections may also be necessary. During labor, it is important to monitor blood sugar levels and respond to any “peaks and valleys” in mother or baby. After birth, close observation is recommended for newborns.
Of course, prevention is better than any treatment.
Women who are planning to conceive can reduce their risk by eating healthily, getting regular physical activity, and shedding excess weight. Those with additional risk factors should consult with their doctor to ensure that a monitoring and treatment plan is in place.
