Gestational diabetes

What causes and how to prevent it?

Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes induced by pregnancy, a specific reason why this disease occurs in this state of women is not yet known, it is believed that pregnancy hormones reduce the body’s ability to use and respond to the action of insulin. Steroidogenesis and placental lactogen are what make a woman suffer from gestational diabetes. That happens in the second trimester, which is when the placenta begins to function properly. The result? A high level of glucose in the blood. This can occur in 3-10% of pregnant women.


Symptoms of gestational diabetes are usually mild or not even present, these include:

● Blurred vision.
● Fatigue
● Frequent infections
● Increased thirst
● Nausea and vomiting
● Weight loss or increased irregular appetite

Women who are older than 25 years are more likely to develop this type of diabetes or those who have a family history of gestational diabetes. Being overweight can also contribute to the development of this disease, blood pressure or the presence of polycystic ovary syndrome.



What complications can gestational diabetes bring to pregnancy?

Gestational diabetes that is not controlled can cause health problems for both the breast and the baby. There is a risk of complications that can affect the baby:
1. Excess birth weight
2. Risk of premature delivery
3. Low blood sugar
4. The baby has a risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future

In the breast it can cause:
1. High blood pressure
2. Future diabetes


Treatment for gestational diabetes is based on diet, exercise and certain medications that can only be prescribed by the doctor. Treatment for this disease consists of maintaining a blood glucose level equivalent to that of pregnant women without gestational diabetes. Food: It is recommended to distribute the caloric content of the diet in such a way that 40-50% should be carbohydrates, 30-40% fat and 20% protein.Exercise: This should be a moderate exercise, at least 30 minutes a day.

Gestational diabetes is a disease that if not controlled can have very serious consequences, both for the baby and for the mother. You should be aware of any strange symptoms you notice in your pregnancy and consult your doctor immediately.