What is gestational diabetes mellitus: 10 things to know about gestational diabetes during pregnancy

What is Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes mellitus is a condition that occurs when the sugar levels in the blood increase beyond the normal limits. It may occur either due to insulin deficiency or because of peripheral tissue resistance to the action of insulin. The state of pregnancy has been known to increase this insulin resistance.(Image: Canva)

Definition of Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes mellitus refers to the intolerance to carbohydrates that is detected during the current pregnancy. It often occurs during the second or the third trimester. Risk factors for the development of gestational diabetes mellitus include a positive family history and a history of having a baby that weighed four kilograms or more.(Image: Canva)

Risk Factors in Pregnancy
Unexplained perinatal loss and the presence of increased amniotic fluid builds up around the baby in the uterus. Recurrent fungal infection of the vagina has also been implicated. It is commonly seen in women who are above thirty years of age, or have obesity.(Image: Canva)

Screening and Diagnosis
While not all pregnant females may need screening for gestational diabetes mellitus, it is crucial to check in those who are at a higher risk for developing it. An oral glucose challenge test may be carried out between twenty-four to twenty-eight weeks of pregnancy to determine the presence of this condition.(Image: Canva)

Complications for Mother
If not timely treated, gestational diabetes mellitus can lead to a number of complications. Preterm labour may be seen in affected females due to infection or polyhydramnios. Diabetes also increases the incidence of urinary tract infections and infections of the vagina.(Image: Canva)

Complications for Baby
Alongside, uncontrolled diabetes may also lead to raised blood pressure in pregnant females. As diabetes can lead to a big baby, it may result in maternal distress due to the increased size of the uterus. Loss of vision may be seen in some untreated individuals due to diabetic retinopathy.(Image: Canva)

Shoulder Dystocia Risk
Gestational diabetes mellitus can result in a disproportionate growth of the baby, with an increase in the shoulder to head ratio. This can predispose to shoulder dystocia, which is an obstetric emergency where the baby’s shoulder gets stuck once the head has emerged.(Image: Canva)

Congenital Malformations
Genetic susceptibility, along with gestational diabetes, may affect the formation of organs, thus leading to congenital malformations. Birth injuries in the baby may be seen due to prolonged labour and shoulder dystocia. The baby may have complications like respiratory distress and reduced calcium levels at birth.(Image: Canva)

Counselling Before Pregnancy
Counselling before having a baby is necessary for those who have diabetes before pregnancy, as keeping the blood sugar levels under control is required to prevent complications. Frequent blood sugar estimation may be advised to keep a check. Regular ultrasounds may aid in detecting congenital malformations at an early stage.(Image: Canva)

Dietary Management and Care
Dietary modifications are often recommended to control the blood sugar levels. The diet should contain about forty to fifty percent carbohydrates and about twenty percent protein. Saturated fats can be less than ten percent. Regular assessment of fetal well-being is necessary.(Image: Canva)
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.