Gestational Diabetes
Diabetes that triggered by pregnancy is called gestational diabetes. It is often diagnosed in middle or late pregnancy. Because high blood sugar levels in a mother are circulated through the placenta to the baby, gestational diabetes must be controlled to protect the babys growth and development.
Gestational diabetes usually resolves itself after pregnancy having Gestational diabetes keeps at risk for developing type 2 diabetes later in life. Gestational diabetes is risks to the unborn baby are greater than risks to the mother. Risks to the baby include abnormal weight gain before birth, breathing problems at birth, and higher obesity and diabetes risk later in life. Risks to the mother include needing a cesarean section due to an overly large baby, as well as damage to heart, kidney, nerves, and eye.
Treatment during pregnancy includes
Careful meal planning to ensure adequate pregnancy nutrients without excess fat and calories
Controlling pregnancy weight gain
Taking diabetes insulin to control blood sugar levels if needed
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