Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that is first detected during pregnancy or the gestation period. Diabetes during pregnancy can impact the health of both the mother and the child. Therefore, pregnant women need to know its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
What is gestational diabetes?
Gestational diabetes can occur at any stage of pregnancy; however, it is often diagnosed during the second or third trimester. As a result, the body’s ability to produce insulin is hampered. Therefore, blood glucose levels rise. Early detection of the symptoms of gestational diabetes can help manage the disease and reduce its associated risk. Blood sugar levels usually return to an average level after delivery, but women with this diabetes have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Symptoms of gestational diabetes
Noticeable signs and symptoms are usually not present in gestational diabetes. Most of the cases are discovered during routine screening. Some common symptoms present in some women with very high blood sugar levels are:
- Increased thirst
- Mouth dryness
- Frequent visits to the washroom for urination
- Itching in the genital area
- Yeast infections
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tiredness
- Blurred eyesight
These signs and symptoms do not necessarily indicate this disease. During pregnancy, any woman can have this diabetes; however, certain factors can increase the risk:
- Women over 40 years of age
- Obesity
- Diabetes in a previous pregnancy
- Family history of diabetes
- Gastric bypass or other weight-loss surgeries
- Asian, black, Middle Eastern, or African-Caribbean ethnicity
Gestational diabetes can result in health complications for the mother and the developing foetus.
- The foetus may grow larger than usual, leading to complications and the likelihood of induced labour or caesarean section delivery.
- It can also lead to polyhydramnios, which means too much amniotic fluid surrounds the baby. Polyhydramnios can cause premature labour or delivery complications.
- Gestational diabetes can also result in high blood pressure during pregnancy (pre-eclampsia).
- After birth, babies may suffer from low blood sugar or jaundice, which requires treatment.
- Stillbirth or loss of a baby in the womb is a rare complication.
Conclusion
Gestational diabetes can impact both mother and child. While often symptomless, signs may include increased thirst and fatigue. Risk factors include age, obesity, and family history of diabetes. This condition can lead to complications like larger foetal size, high amniotic fluid, and high maternal blood pressure. Post-birth, babies might face issues like low blood sugar or jaundice. Therefore, early detection and proactive management are crucial. Health insurance can also cover postnatal care, helping monitor the health of both mother and baby after delivery to address any lingering effects of gestational diabetes.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.
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