Diabetes risk increases when blood sugar levels become uncontrolled during pregnancy.
Pregnancy is, in many ways, a joyous experience that every woman desires. During this time, women undergo numerous physical and hormonal changes. However, health issues sometimes arise, one of which is gestational diabetes (GD) – diabetes that occurs during pregnancy.
The hormonal shifts during pregnancy can increase the risk of developing diabetes. This condition is detrimental not only to the mother but also profoundly impacts the health of the unborn child. Dr. Meera Pathak, Senior Medical Officer and Gynaecology Specialist, has provided crucial information regarding the associated health problems and preventative measures.
Dr. Pathak explained that the risk of diabetes increases when blood sugar levels become uncontrolled during pregnancy. This is typically observed during the sixth or seventh month of gestation. However, if not managed in a timely manner, it can become risky for both the mother and the baby in the future.
Identifying High-Risk Factors
Discussing the risks associated with diabetes during pregnancy, Dr. Pathak highlighted several critical factors. The possibility of developing gestational diabetes is significantly higher if:
- The pregnant woman is over 40 years old.
- There is a history of diabetes in the immediate family.
- The woman is struggling with blood pressure or heart disease.
She further noted that some risk factors stem from previous pregnancies, stating, “The mother is also at risk of developing diabetes if she had diabetes during a previous pregnancy, experienced recurrent miscarriages, or if the newborn weighed more than 4 kg or less than 2 kg.”
Recognising the Symptoms
Dr. Pathak elaborated on the symptoms associated with gestational diabetes. She advised that if a woman experiences the following during pregnancy, there is a chance of diabetes:
- Frequent thirst
- Increased urination
- Excessive hunger
- Increased appetite but corresponding weight loss
- Feeling fatigued and weak
Maternal and Foetal Complications
Highlighting the difficulties that arise during pregnancy due to maternal diabetes, Dr. Pathak noted that these mothers face an increased risk of high blood pressure, miscarriage, and higher rates of infection.
Prevention and Management Strategies
Dr. Pathak assured that controlling diabetes during pregnancy is not an overly difficult task. “Typically, diabetes can be managed through diet and exercise,” she stated.
She outlined essential dietary changes:
- Avoid consuming carbohydrate-rich foods.
- Start taking small, frequent meals.
- Strictly avoid items like sugar, honey, jam, fruit juices, soft drinks, cakes and pastries, chocolate biscuits, and ice cream.
- Adopt a protein-rich diet, including foods like oats, paneer (cottage cheese), eggs, and sprouts.
- Important Note: She specifically advised against consuming milk.
Dr. Pathak also recommended taking a short walk after meals whenever possible.
She concluded, “Usually, diabetes is controlled with diet and exercise, but if it is not, insulin can be taken with the doctor’s consultation.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Gestational Diabetes
What is Gestational Diabetes and when does it usually appear?
Gestational Diabetes (GD) is a type of diabetes that develops only during pregnancy in women who did not have diabetes before. According to Dr. Pathak, it is most commonly observed during the sixth or seventh month of pregnancy.
What are the key lifestyle changes recommended to manage Gestational Diabetes?
Dr. Pathak strongly recommends controlling GD through a combination of diet and exercise. Key dietary changes include avoiding carbohydrate-rich foods, consuming small, frequent meals, increasing protein intake (oats, paneer, eggs, sprouts), and strictly avoiding simple sugars like soft drinks, cakes, and jams. Additionally, a short walk after every meal is advised.
When is insulin required for Gestational Diabetes management?
Dr. Pathak noted that while diet and exercise are often sufficient to control GD, if these methods are unsuccessful in regulating blood sugar levels, insulin may be administered but only under the consultation and guidance of a doctor.