Gestational Diabetes
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a type of diabetes that develops for the first time during pregnancy, when hormonal changes in the body affect insulin.
Causes and Risk Factors of Gestational Diabetes • Being overweight - Body Mass Index (BMI) is > 23. • Family history of diabetes. • Personal history of gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy. • History of previously delivering an overweight baby weighing more than 4 kg • Suffering from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
Gestational Diabetes Delivery and the Newborn’s Health • Premature delivery • Increased chances of cesarean section or traumatic vaginal delivery • Baby can be overweight. • Baby can have difficulty breathing after birth • Excess production of insulin in babies in response to the mother’s high blood sugar level. After delivery, the high amount of insulin in babies can cause their blood glucose levels to go down dramatically. • Neonatal jaundice.
Managing Blood Sugar Levels During Pregnancy Expectant mothers with the diagnosis of GDM are advised ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle and diet throughout the pregnancy period. They may also require insulin therapy or oral medicines to control their blood sugar level.
Diet and Activities Recommended for Women with Gestational Diabetes • Eating healthy, including eating five servings of fruit/vegetables a day • Maintaining a balanced diet of three meals and three snacks • Avoiding sugary foods such as juices, desserts or bakery items • Exercising regularly, including moderate aerobics, or walk for 20 to 30 minutes daily.
Planning Future Pregnancies If someone has had Gestational Diabetes in previous pregnancies, it increases their chances of developing it again in future pregnancies. Therefore, they are recommended to meet their doctor when planning the next pregnancy, so that all necessary guidance and direction is provided for a safe and healthy pregnancy.
Combined Maternal Diabetes (CMD) Clinic At the Aga Khan University Hospital, mothers with Gestational Diabetes are referred to our Combined Maternal Diabetes (CMD) Clinic. The main purpose of this clinic is to help pregnant women with diabetes optimise sugar control during pregnancy and promote successful pregnancy outcomes.
For further information about CMD Clinic, please consult your physician. Call for appointments: 021-111-911-911. OR Visit this link: https://hospitals.aku.edu/pakistan/AboutUs/News/Pages/g estational-diabetes.aspx