Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a health condition marked by elevated blood sugar levels occurring during pregnancy in women who haven't previously been diagnosed with diabetes. While it typically resolves after childbirth, it poses significant health risks for both the mother and the baby during pregnancy and beyond. This blog will delve into the various complications of gestational diabetes, shedding light on the potential impacts on both maternal and fetal health.
What are The Complications of Gestational Diabetes?
If left untreated, gestational diabetes can cause several problems for both the mother and the unborn child. Risks associated with high blood sugar levels can affect long-term health and the success of pregnancies. Some of the major gestational diabetes complications include:
1. Baby-Related Complications:
Problems impacting the baby include:
● Excessive Birth Weight
Babies born with gestational diabetes may weigh more than the typical range. This disorder, called macrosomia, raises the risk of problems during delivery, such as the baby being stuck in the birth canal or getting hurt during delivery. In extreme situations, a caesarean section (C- section) can be required.
● Preterm Birth
Early labour and delivery that occurs before the scheduled date may be caused by elevated blood sugar levels. Risks associated with preterm delivery include respiratory distress syndrome, which makes breathing difficult and needs immediate medical attention.
● Severe Breathing Problems
Respiratory distress syndrome, which causes breathing problems, can occur in babies delivered prematurely as a result of gestational diabetes. Timely medical attention is necessary to safeguard the baby's health in the event of this issue.
● Hypoglycemia
Also known as low blood sugar, this condition can occur in certain newborns whose mothers have gestational diabetes. Severe hypoglycemia episodes might cause convulsions in the infant; thus, stabilising blood sugar levels right away is essential.
● Type-2 Diabetes and Obesity Risk:
It's crucial to highlight that timely intervention and proper management of gestational diabetes are linked to a reduced risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes in the children of mothers with untreated diabetes during pregnancy.
2. Mother-Related Complications:
This comprises of:
● High Blood Pressure and Preeclampsia
Pre-eclampsia and high blood pressure are dangerous pregnancy complications that can pose a threat to the lives of both the mother and the unborn child. These conditions are made more likely by gestational diabetes.
● Increased Probability of C-Section
Because of difficulties associated with high blood sugar and foetal macrosomia, women with gestational diabetes are more likely to have a surgical birth (C-section).
● Future Diabetes Risk:
Having gestational diabetes elevates the risk of type-2 diabetes later in life and increases the possibility of recurrence in subsequent pregnancies, highlighting the significance of continued monitoring and lifestyle changes.
Conclusion
The myriad complications of GDM underscore the critical need for proactive management and prevention strategies. As healthcare continues to evolve, access to comprehensive health insurance coverage becomes paramount in ensuring that mothers and babies receive the necessary care to mitigate the risks posed by this condition.