Pregnancy brings many changes to a woman's body, and sometimes these changes include the development of gestational diabetes. The percentage of mothers giving birth who received a diagnosis of diabetes during pregnancy (gestational diabetes) increased from 6.0% in 2016 to 8.3% in 2021, making it one of the most common pregnancy complications. Around 14% of pregnancies globally are affected by gestational diabetes, with rates continuing to rise. Understanding what gestational diabetes is and how to manage it effectively can help ensure a healthy pregnancy for both mother and baby.
What Is Gestational Diabetes?
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a form of diabetes that develops during pregnancy in women who didn't previously have diabetes. It occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin to meet the increased demands of pregnancy, resulting in elevated blood glucose levels. The condition typically develops during the second or third trimester, usually between weeks 24 and 28, when pregnancy hormones are at their peak and can interfere with insulin function.
Unlike type 1 or type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes usually resolves after delivery. However, women who develop GDM have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life, making long-term monitoring important.
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing gestational diabetes, including being of advanced maternal age (over 35), having a family history of diabetes, or being overweight before pregnancy. Previous pregnancies complicated by gestational diabetes or having previously delivered a baby weighing more than 9 pounds also elevate risk.
A 2021 review in PMC emphasized that GD is influenced by genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors, highlighting the need for early screening. Many women with gestational diabetes experience no obvious symptoms, which is why routine screening is crucial. When symptoms do occur, they may include excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, or blurred vision.
The cornerstone of gestational diabetes management is maintaining healthy blood glucose levels through a combination of dietary modifications, physical activity, and regular monitoring.
Dietary Management: Working with a registered dietitian to develop a personalized meal plan is essential. The focus is on consuming consistent amounts of carbohydrates throughout the day, choosing complex carbohydrates over simple sugars, and including adequate protein and healthy fats. Small, frequent meals help prevent blood sugar spikes.
Physical Activity: Regular, moderate exercise helps the body use glucose more effectively. Safe pregnancy exercises like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can significantly improve blood sugar control when approved by a healthcare provider.
Blood Glucose Monitoring: Women with gestational diabetes typically need to check their blood sugar levels multiple times daily using a glucometer. This helps identify patterns and ensures levels remain within target ranges.
Medical Management: If lifestyle modifications aren't sufficient to control blood glucose levels, medication may be necessary. Insulin is the most commonly prescribed medication, as it doesn't cross the placenta and is safe for the developing baby.
Regular prenatal visits become even more critical with gestational diabetes. At OBGYN CARE, Dr. Marinescu and the team provide compassionate, evidence-based support—from screenings to management plans. We monitor both maternal and fetal well-being through ultrasounds, non-stress tests, and careful tracking of baby's growth patterns. This comprehensive approach helps prevent complications and ensures the best possible outcomes.
With proper management, most women with gestational diabetes go on to have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies. The key is early detection, consistent monitoring, and adherence to the recommended treatment plan.
