Thursday, September 22, 2022

gestational diabetes

gestational Diabetics is a type of diabetics that can occur in pregnant women who have not been known to have diabetics before pregnancy. it usually subsides during the early post-partum period: however, it may recur in subsequent pregnancies. 



Who is at great Risk?

  • Obese women
  • Who has a previous history of glucose intolerance
  • any pregnant woman who has elevated fasting, or casual. blood glucose levels
  • those with a history of gestational diabetic Mellitus
  • those who with a history of large babies weight higher than 3.5kg
  • Strong family history of diabetes Mellitus. 
If you are within the above categories please meet your doctor and get blood sugar tested during the first three months of pregnancy in order to detect previously undiagnosed diabetes Mellitus. if you are in the above risk group and the 1st blood sugar test is negative, it is important to consult your doctor between 6-7 months of your pregnancy period for a repeat blood sugar test. 

Interpretation of results

Fasting for 8-14 hours take the blood sample and give 75g glucose in 250-300ml water. to confirm the gestational diabetics, there should be two or more positive values. 
Fasting >= 95mg/dl
1hour >= 180mg/dl
2hour >= 155mg/dl


Meal Planning During Pregnancy

The number of carbohydrates should be reduced for breakfast because of more hormonal surges and insulin resistance in the morning hours during the pregnancy period. the carbohydrate choice for breakfast should be limited to two choices (30 g) to help promote blood sugar. 
It is necessary to fulfil the daily needs of energy and nutrients during the pregnancy period to protect the baby. pregnant women need more calories and nutrients than the non-pregnant woman as indicated below table. 

Uncontrolled gestational diabetes can result in high blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels can cause issues for you and your baby, including an increased likelihood of requiring delivery surgery.

Complications that may affect your baby

Overweight at birth. If your blood sugar level is higher than the normal range, your baby may grow too large. Babies weighing 9 pounds or more are more likely to become wedged in the birth canal, and suffer birth injuries.

Premature (early) birth. High blood sugar levels may increase the likelihood of delivery before the due date. If the baby is large, early delivery may be advised.

Stillbirth. Untreated gestational diabetes can cause a baby's death before or soon after birth.

Obesity and type 2 diabetes in old age. Babies are more likely to develop obesity and type 2 diabetes later in life.
Low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia). Shortly after birth, babies may experience low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Severe hypoglycemia episodes may result in seizures in the baby. Prompt feedings and, in some cases, intravenous glucose solutions can help the baby's blood sugar levels return to normal.


Complications that may affect to you

Preeclampsia and high blood pressure Gestational diabetes increases your risk of high blood pressure and preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication that causes high blood pressure and other symptoms that can endanger both your life and your baby's life.
Having a surgical birth (C-section). If you have gestational diabetes, you are more likely to have a C-section.

Diabetes in the future. If you have gestational diabetes, you are more likely to develop it during a subsequent pregnancy. You are also more likely to develop type 2 diabetes as you age.

Prevention

When it comes to preventing gestational diabetes, there are no guarantees, but the more healthy habits you can adopt before pregnancy, the better. If you've had gestational diabetes before, these healthy choices may reduce your chances of getting it again in future pregnancies or developing type 2 diabetes.

Don't gain more weight than is necessary. Gaining weight while pregnant is normal and healthy. However, gaining too much weight too quickly can increase your chances of developing gestational diabetes. Ask your doctor what is a reasonable amount of weight gain for you.

Begin your pregnancy at a healthy weight. If you intend to become pregnant, losing excess weight prior to conception may help you have a healthier pregnancy. Concentrate on making long-term changes to your eating habits that will benefit you during pregnancy, such as eating more vegetables and fruits.

Consume nutritious foods. Choose foods that are high in fibre while being low in fat and calories. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains should be prioritized. Strive for variety to help you reach your goals while not sacrificing taste or nutrition. Take note of portion sizes.

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