Gestational Diabetes What is Gestational Diabetes? Gestational Diabetes is referred to as an increase in blood glucose levels during the pregnancy period. This is similar to the type1 and type2 diabetes only that they are developed during the pregnancy period and usually depart after child birth. The foods we eat are broken down in our digestive system. The glucose released from the breakdown food enters the bloodstream and is reached to the cells for the proper functioning. The cells absorb the sugar with the help of hormone called as insulin that is produced by the pancreas. During pregnancy period more blood glucose is required to nourish the growing baby. This increased level of glucose demands more insulin to process. When the pancreas is not able to produce enough insulin to act on the high levels of glucose, the blood glucose levels increase in the blood stream. This causes in gestational diabetes. At Greens medical center we offer all the support and advice for the well being of the new parents and baby. Greens medical center is a multispecialty hospital with well equipped infrastructure and have an expert team of doctors and surgeons to help you to recover from any medical conditions and to stay fit and healthy. Before 12 weeks then at 20 to 24 weeks and lastly during the beginning of the last trimester of pregnancy glucose tests are conducted to evaluate the blood glucose levels. If the expected mother have developed gestational diabetes it is important to treat them quickly as they can affect the health of baby and the mother. Gestational diabetes is not permanent. When the baby is born the need for extra blood glucose diminishes and the body naturally adjusts to the required levels of blood glucose in the bloodstream. However patients who had gestational diabetes are more likely to develop diabetes in the future. Gestational Diabetes Causes Not all pregnant women develop gestational diabetes. Some reasons that can develop gestational diabetes include: Maternal age Family background Overweight Having polycystic ovarian syndrome Glucose intolerance Gestational Diabetes Diagnosis Gestational diabetes is diagnosed by conducting a glucose test. This requires the patients to drink any sugary solution resulting in increase in the blood glucose levels. After an hour, sample blood is taken to observe how the body manages the excess intake of sugar. If the blood glucose levels are higher than the required amount then a longer glucose test is conducted by collecting blood samples during fasting and after having the sugary drink. If the results are normal then the reports are tracked and require regular follow ups in later stages of pregnancy. Gestational Diabetes Treatment If the blood glucose levels are very high, then doctors suggest intake of insulin or other medications to control the condition and advice to follow a healthy and nutritious diet. Regular exercise is also required to keep the blood glucose levels in bay. At Greens medical center, we have a team of experts to help you treat and recover from all medical conditions. We have the best medical infrastructure and medical utilities to provide all round care and support to the patients. For any queries related to gestational diabetes contact us.
