Gestational Diabetes

When we talk about diabetes, we mean that the body—specifically the pancreas—is unable to produce the necessary insulin, the hormone that regulates blood glucose levels. During pregnancy, the mechanism for producing this hormone is disrupted by the action of hormones secreted by the placenta. To cope with these new conditions, the pancreas is forced to work harder, producing up to twice the amount of insulin. Sometimes, however, it cannot manage this, resulting in glucose not being absorbed by the cells and circulating in the blood in greater quantities than it should.

It has been observed that approximately 3–6% of women experience this condition during their pregnancy, with those who have a family history of diabetes, are obese, or are over 35 years of age being more frequently at risk for the condition. However, in many cases, no “risk factors” are needed for it to develop. Gestational diabetes increases the risk of a range of complications, including the development of hypertension in the mother, polyhydramnios, intrauterine fetal death, congenital anomalies, and fetal macrosomia; after delivery, there is an increased risk of hypoglycemia, hypocalcemia, or respiratory distress syndrome in the infant. Delivery in women with gestational diabetes can be vaginal, unless there are specific indications for a cesarean section. Most centers prefer to induce labor at 38 weeks of gestation.

How is gestational diabetes treated?

• Weight loss, if the pregnant woman is obese.
• A diet low in processed foods high in sugar and butter, sweets, fatty foods, and fried foods.
• Small, frequent meals that are low in calories, but avoid starvation and food deprivation.
• A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, fish, high-quality lean meat, dietary fiber, and dairy products.
• Staying well-hydrated.
• Staying well-hydrated.
• Exercise and physical activity as much as possible.

If all else fails and blood sugar levels remain high, then insulin injections are recommended, depending on the individual case. Antidiabetic medications are generally not recommended and should be avoided.