Gestational diabetes - a short-term type of diabetes that can develop during pregnancy - is a fairly common condition affecting 2-10% of pregnancies per year in the United States. But what exactly is it? How do you test for it? And what do you do if you have it?
What is gestational diabetes?
Gestational diabetes is a condition that means there’s too much sugar in the blood. This happens when hormones produced by the placenta cause insulin resistance which leads to a build up of glucose.
The glucose test
About 24-28 weeks into pregnancy, the placenta has started producing the hormones that could cause insulin resistance. This means it's time for the glucose test, which is a preliminary screening to determine the body's ability to process sugar.
The test involves drinking a sugary solution that's high in glucose, then testing your blood sugar levels one hour later. If your levels are high, your provider will recommend you take a second test involving a solution with a higher glucose content and blood sugar level tests every hour for three hours.
How do I manage it?
If your tests indicate that you have gestational diabetes, don't panic! Look to your provider for information on what you can do to manage your blood sugar whether that means working with your provider directly or speaking with a recommended nutritionist. Treatment plans for gestational diabetes incorporate mindful habits in your day-to-day such as:
Remember, gestational diabetes does not equate to an unhealthy pregnancy. Talk to your provider, follow the recommended steps to maintain healthy blood sugar levels, and enjoy your pregnancy!
If you're looking for more support during your pregnancy, be sure to check out Birthly! Birthly offers comprehensive online childbirth education courses that can help you prepare for birth, learn more about your options, and feel more confident as you approach your due date. With Birthly, you'll have access to expert guidance, practical tips, and a supportive community of parents-to-be. So why not give it a try? Head over to Birthly now and sign up for their childbirth education courses to help you feel more prepared for this exciting journey ahead.