Pregnancy is a journey filled with joy and challenges. One such challenge is gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). It causes high blood sugar during pregnancy. Managing diabetes in pregnancy is vital for the health of both mother and child.
Gestational diabetes is not temporary. It needs specialized care. The good news? With proper management, it can be controlled. At Dr. Mohan’s, we guide women on this journey. We support a healthy pregnancy and baby.
Causes and Risk Factors
Gestational diabetes happens when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin during pregnancy. Insulin helps control blood sugar levels, but pregnancy hormones can disrupt this process. Some women are at higher risk of developing gestational diabetes:
- Family history of diabetes
- Being overweight before pregnancy
- Age over 25
- Certain ethnicities, such as Hispanic, Black, Native American, or Asian
- Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- A history of gestational diabetes or carrying multiple fetuses
Recognizing these risk factors can help in early diagnosis and management.
Diagnosis and Testing
Diagnosing gestational diabetes is crucial for a healthy pregnancy. Testing is done between the 24th and 28th week of pregnancy. A glucose challenge test measures blood sugar after consuming a sugary drink. If glucose levels are high, an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) is performed. It involves fasting, drinking a glucose solution, and testing blood sugar several times. Early detection allows for effective blood sugar control and prevents complications.
The Importance of Specialized Treatment
Gestational diabetes requires a tailored approach. Pregnancy is unique, and one-size-fits-all solutions don’t work. At Dr. Mohan’s, our team customizes care plans to manage blood sugar levels effectively.
We provide:
- Personalized meal plans to stabilize blood sugar
- Exercise regimens suited to each week of pregnancy
- Regular monitoring of glucose levels
- Emotional support and counseling
Specialized care reduces risks like preeclampsia and delivery issues. It ensures a healthy mother and baby.
Tips for Managing Gestational Diabetes
Managing gestational diabetes is essential. Here are some tips:
- Monitor blood sugar levels regularly to understand how food and activity affect glucose.
- Adopt a balanced diet with whole grains, lean proteins, and vegetables. Avoid sugary snacks and drinks.
- Stay active with light exercises like walking to help regulate glucose levels.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Communicate with your healthcare team and seek advice when needed.
In conclusion, gestational diabetes is manageable with early diagnosis and proper care. At Dr. Mohan’s, we help women control blood sugar in pregnancy. This ensures a healthy pregnancy and baby.
