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  • Gestational Diabetes

    Pregnant woman with Gestational Diabetes

    Gestational Diabetes Moms: Common Questions

    Gestational Diabetes Moms:
    Comment Questions

    What tests will I need to have during my pregnancy?
    A glucose screening test and possibly a glucose tolerance test. If you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, you may have to check your own blood sugar and check for urine ketones.
    What is the glucose screening test?
    A glucose screening test involves drawing blood to evaluate your fasting blood glucose level. You must have nothing to eat or drink for at least 8-12 hours prior to the test. A normal range for fasting blood glucose is 70-99 mg/dL. If the test comes back elevated and you have other risk factors such as a family history of diabetes or previous history of gestational diabetes it is recommended that you have a glucose tolerance test.
    What is the glucose tolerance test?
    There are two types of glucose tolerance tests, a 1-hour and 3-hour test. The initial 1-hour screening test measures your blood glucose one hour after consuming 50 grams of oral glucose; this may be evaluated at any time of day regardless of when you have last eaten. If your blood glucose is greater than 130 mg/dL, the next step is a 3-hour diagnostic test.
    The 3-hour glucose tolerance test involves drinking 100 grams of oral glucose after fasting for 8-12 hours the night before. Blood is drawn after fasting, then at 1, 2, and 3 hour increments after consuming the oral glucose. Two or more elevated blood test results are required for a positive diagnosis of gestational diabetes.
    How can gestational diabetes affect me and my baby?
    Gestational diabetes develops in the second trimester of pregnancy after the baby's body has been formed so major birth defects are not typically a result of gestational diabetes.
    However, poorly controlled blood sugars can harm you and your baby. You may be at risk for high blood pressure during your pregnancy. Your baby may have macrosomia which means being larger than normal for gestational age, this can put the baby at risk for obesity and type 2 diabetes. Your baby also may have low blood sugar or be at risk for breathing problems after birth.
    Will I have to have a cesarean?
    The diagnosis of gestational diabetes alone is not an indication for a cesarean. However, the increased occurrence of a larger than average birth weight baby or delivery complications may increase the need for a cesarean delivery.
    What can I do to control my gestational diabetes?
    Follow the guidelines of your doctor to keep your blood sugar within the target range, eat a healthy diet, get regular physical activity and maintain a healthy weight throughout your pregnancy.
    Why is diet so important?
    Following a healthy diet can help to keep your blood sugars in the target range and prevent complications of gestational diabetes. Foods that contain carbohydrates raise the blood sugar so it is important to keep your carbohydrate intake consistent throughout the day. It is also advised to limit sugary foods and drinks while at the same time increase your intake of complex carbohydrates and fiber.
    What happens after my baby is born?
    After your baby is born, you will have your blood sugar checked after delivery and again 6-12 weeks later.
    Will I have diabetes after my baby is born?
    Gestational diabetes typically goes away after delivery however you may be at increased risk for gestational diabetes in subsequent pregnancies and for developing type 2 diabetes in the future.