A type of diabetes that develops only during pregnancy, affecting how cells use sugar.
What is Gestational Diabetes?
Gestational Diabetes (GD) is a type of high blood sugar that develops specifically during pregnancy in women who did not previously have diabetes. It usually appears around the 24th to 28th week of pregnancy.
Why Does It Happen?
During pregnancy, the placenta produces hormones that help the baby grow. Unfortunately, these same hormones can cause insulin resistance in the mother's body—meaning her cells don't use insulin efficiently.
While most moms' pancreases can just pump out more insulin to compensate, in mothers with GD, the body can't keep up. Blood sugar levels then stay elevated, which can pass through the placenta and cause the baby to grow too large (macrosomia).
How is it Tested?
Most women are screened for GD between 24 and 28 weeks using the Glucose Challenge Test. You drink a sugary liquid, wait an hour, and have your blood drawn. If the result is high, you'll perform a longer, 3-hour Glucose Tolerance Test for a formal diagnosis.
Managing Gestational Diabetes
The good news is that GD is very manageable and usually disappears immediately after the baby is born. Management typically involves:
- Nutrition: Shifting to a diet rich in complex carbs, high fiber, and lean protein to prevent blood sugar spikes.
- Exercise: Regular walking or swimming helps the body use insulin more effectively.
- Monitoring: Checking your blood sugar levels several times a day using a small finger-prick device.
- Medication: In some cases, if diet and exercise aren't enough, oral medications or insulin may be required.
Long-Term Considerations
While GD goes away after birth, women who have had it have a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and getting screened every few years is important for long-term wellness.
The Bottom Line
A diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes doesn't mean you've done anything wrong—it's primarily a result of placental hormones. By using the Bloom App to track your nutrition and activity, you can stay in control and ensure a healthy outcome for both you and your baby.
Medical Disclaimer: All content in this section is for educational and informational purposes only and is NOT intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Bloom is not a replacement for professional medical consultation and should not be used as a primary form of birth control. Read our full Terms of Service.
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