New Delhi: Diabetes during pregnancy is known to impact the health of pregnant women and their babies. This article highlights vital tips such as diet, exercise, and maintaining an optimum weight to manage diabetes during pregnancy.
This World Diabetes Day, Dr. Preethika Shetty, Consultant Obstetrician; Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Kharadi, answered all FAQs about gestational diabetes.
What is gestational diabetes?
Gestational diabetes affects approximately 10% of pregnant women and is characterized by elevated blood sugar levels that develop during pregnancy. According to various studies, hormonal changes associated with pregnancy can lead to insulin resistance, highlighting why monitoring glucose levels becomes crucial. The risk factors for gestational diabetes are obesity, high blood pressure, heart disease, family history of type 2 diabetes, advanced maternal age, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The symptoms of gestational diabetes are frequent urination, excessive thirst, nausea, and tiredness. Unmanaged diabetes during pregnancy can invite a wide range of complications in the mother and baby.
The complications of gestational diabetes in mother and baby: Gestational diabetes can transform what is often a joyous time into a complex medical journey. For mothers, the physical implications include an increased risk of hypertension preeclampsia, and C-sections. Women may find themselves grappling with emotional burdens such as anxiety and guilt about their condition and its effects on their baby’s health. This stress can lead to complications that further exacerbate both mental and physical well-being. For newborns, gestational diabetes often results in excess insulin production, leading to macrosomia or abnormally large size at birth. Moreover, children born to mothers with gestational diabetes are at higher risk for developing obesity and Type 2 diabetes later in life, creating a troubling generational continuum of metabolic disorders. Pregnant women need to manage diabetes during pregnancy.
Managing gestational diabetes
Gestational diabetes management during pregnancy: Managing gestational diabetes requires a proactive approach. Pregnant women will be advised to focus on eating a nutritious diet inclusive of leafy greens, whole grains, and protein to control abnormal blood glucose levels. Avoid junk, spicy, oily, canned, and processed foods that can cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Regular physical activity, such as walking or prenatal yoga, improves insulin sensitivity and enhances mood when it comes to pregnant women.
Tracking daily routines through apps or journals can foster mindfulness around eating habits and physical activity levels; these tools help empower women by keeping them engaged in their health journey. The stress of managing gestational diabetes can be overwhelming. Therefore, integrating relaxation techniques like meditation or breathing exercises into the daily routine can be helpful for women. Encouraging open conversations with the expert to keep diabetes in control and improve your and the baby’s health.
World Diabetes Day 2024: Gestational diabetes affects approximately 10% of pregnant women and is characterised by elevated blood sugar levels that develop during pregnancy. According to various studies, hormonal changes associated with pregnancy can lead to insulin resistance, highlighting why monitoring glucose levels becomes crucial. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
