Gestational Diabetes: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment

During pregnancy, the body goes through many changes, and one of them involves how it handles sugar. Sometimes, blood sugar levels become too high, leading to a condition called gestational diabetes. This can happen even without obvious symptoms, making routine tests an important part of prenatal care. If left unchecked, gestational diabetes can lead to complications for both the mother and baby, but with the right approach, it can be managed to support a healthy pregnancy. This blog breaks it all down in a way that’s easy to follow. Let’s start by going through the basics on gestational diabetes.

What is Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy when blood sugar levels become too high. It usually occurs in the second or third trimester and is caused by hormonal changes that affect how the body uses insulin. This condition does not always cause noticeable symptoms, which is why routine screening during pregnancy is important.

Most cases can be managed with diet, exercise, and blood sugar monitoring, but some may require medication. Gestational diabetes usually goes away after childbirth, but it can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. Proper management helps reduce complications for both the mother and baby.

What are the Symptoms of Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes often develops without obvious signs, which is why routine screening during pregnancy is important. In some cases, symptoms may appear but can be mild and easily overlooked.

• Increased thirst and frequent urination – High blood sugar levels can make the body lose more fluids, leading to excessive thirst and more trips to the bathroom.
• Unusual fatigue – Feeling tired is common during pregnancy, but persistent exhaustion could be linked to fluctuating blood sugar levels.
• Blurred vision – Changes in blood sugar levels can affect fluid balance in the eyes, leading to temporary vision problems.
• Dry mouth and excessive hunger – High blood sugar can cause dehydration, leading to a persistent dry mouth, and in some cases, increased appetite.
• Recurrent infections – High blood sugar levels can weaken the immune system, making infections like urinary tract infections (UTIs) and yeast infections more common.

Since many of these symptoms can be mistaken for normal pregnancy changes, gestational diabetes is usually diagnosed through routine glucose screening rather than symptoms alone. 

What are the Risk Factors for Gestational Diabetes?

Several factors can increase the chances of developing gestational diabetes during pregnancy. These risk factors can be linked to overall health, medical history, and pregnancy-related conditions.

Health and Medical History

• Being overweight before pregnancy – Excess body weight can make it harder for insulin to regulate blood sugar levels properly. A higher body mass index (BMI) before pregnancy increases the likelihood of gestational diabetes.
• Family history of diabetes – A close relative, such as a parent or sibling, with type 2 diabetes can increase the risk. Genetics play a role in how the body processes sugar.
• Previous gestational diabetes – Women who had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy are more likely to develop it again. Early screening is often recommended in such cases.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) – This hormonal condition can lead to insulin resistance, making it more difficult for the body to manage blood sugar levels.

Pregnancy-Related Factors

• Carrying multiple babies (twins, triplets, etc.) – The body needs to produce more insulin to support multiple babies, which can sometimes lead to insulin resistance.
• Excess amniotic fluid (polyhydramnios) – Higher levels of amniotic fluid may indicate poor blood sugar control and an increased risk of gestational diabetes.
• Previous delivery of a large baby (4 kg or more) – Having had a larger-than-average baby in a past pregnancy may suggest undiagnosed gestational diabetes or a predisposition to high blood sugar levels during pregnancy.

Other Risk Factors

• Age over 25 – Although gestational diabetes can occur at any age, the risk increases with age, particularly after 25, and even more after 35.
• Sedentary lifestyle – Lack of regular physical activity can contribute to insulin resistance, making it harder for the body to regulate blood sugar effectively.
• High blood pressure or metabolic conditions – Conditions such as hypertension or cholesterol imbalances can affect how insulin functions, increasing the risk of blood sugar issues.

Having one or more of these risk factors does not mean gestational diabetes will develop, but it raises the likelihood.

How is Gestational Diabetes Diagnosed?

Gestational diabetes is diagnosed through blood tests that check how the body processes sugar. Screening is usually done between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy, but for those with risk factors, it may be conducted earlier. The diagnosis typically involves two tests:

Glucose Challenge Test (GCT)

This is the initial screening test to check how the body handles sugar. A sweet glucose drink is given, and after one hour, a blood sample is taken to measure blood sugar levels. There is no need to fast before this test. If the result is higher than the normal range, it does not confirm gestational diabetes but indicates the need for further testing.

Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)

If the GCT result is elevated, an OGTT is performed to confirm the diagnosis. This test requires fasting for at least eight hours beforehand. A fasting blood sample is taken first, followed by drinking a more concentrated glucose solution. Blood samples are then collected at regular intervals over the next one to three hours to track how sugar levels change over time. If two or more readings are higher than the normal range, gestational diabetes is diagnosed.

For those at higher risk, testing may be repeated later in pregnancy, even if the initial results are normal. 

How is Gestational Diabetes Managed and Treated?

Managing gestational diabetes focuses on keeping blood sugar levels within a healthy range to prevent complications for both the mother and baby. Treatment usually involves lifestyle changes, blood sugar monitoring, and, in some cases, medication.

Healthy Eating and Meal Planning

A well-balanced diet plays a key role in managing blood sugar levels. Eating smaller, frequent meals with a mix of complex carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats helps prevent spikes in blood sugar. Foods high in refined sugars and processed carbohydrates should be limited, while high-fibre foods, such as whole grains, vegetables, and legumes, are encouraged. A healthcare provider may suggest a customised meal plan based on individual needs.

Regular Physical Activity

Staying active helps the body use insulin more effectively. Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can help keep blood sugar levels stable. The type and intensity of exercise should be discussed with a healthcare provider to ensure safety during pregnancy.

Blood Sugar Monitoring

Checking blood sugar levels regularly helps track how well the body is processing sugar. A glucose meter is often recommended to monitor levels throughout the day, especially before and after meals. This allows for early adjustments in diet or activity if needed.

Medication and Insulin Therapy

If lifestyle changes are not enough to keep blood sugar within the target range, medication may be required. Some women may need insulin injections or oral diabetes medications to help regulate blood sugar levels. These treatments are prescribed based on individual needs and are considered safe for pregnancy.

Regular Prenatal Check-ups

Frequent prenatal visits help monitor the baby’s growth and overall health. Healthcare providers may recommend additional ultrasounds or foetal monitoring to check for any potential complications. If blood sugar levels remain high despite treatment, an early delivery may be considered to prevent risks to the baby.

Consult Today

Gestational diabetes can bring unexpected challenges, but with the right care, a healthy pregnancy is still achievable. At Max Hospital, specialists provide the care and guidance needed at every step, from diagnosis to management. If you have concerns about blood sugar levels during pregnancy or need a plan tailored to your needs, schedule a consultation at Max Hospital for the right support and care.

FAQs on Gestational Diabetes

Can gestational diabetes affect the baby after birth?

Yes, gestational diabetes can affect the baby even after birth. Babies may have low blood sugar levels (hypoglycaemia) soon after delivery because they were exposed to high sugar levels in the womb. This can usually be managed with early feeding or glucose treatment if needed. Some babies may also have a higher risk of breathing difficulties, jaundice, or a higher birth weight, which can make delivery more complicated. Long-term, there is a higher chance of developing obesity or type 2 diabetes later in life.

Will I have diabetes after pregnancy if I had gestational diabetes?

Most women see their blood sugar levels return to normal after delivery, but having gestational diabetes increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. A follow-up blood sugar test is recommended 6 to 12 weeks after childbirth to ensure levels have returned to normal. Regular screenings in the future are also important, especially before planning another pregnancy.

Is gestational diabetes more common in first-time pregnancies?

Gestational diabetes can occur in any pregnancy, but it is not necessarily more common in first-time pregnancies. Risk factors such as being overweight, having a family history of diabetes, or being over 25 years old play a bigger role in its development. However, women who have had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy have a higher risk of developing it again in future pregnancies.

How does gestational diabetes affect labour and delivery?

Gestational diabetes can lead to a larger baby (macrosomia), which may increase the chances of needing a C-section or experiencing complications during vaginal delivery. High blood sugar levels near the time of birth can also increase the risk of low blood sugar in the baby after delivery. In some cases, labour may be induced early if there are concerns about the baby's size or health.

Is it possible to prevent gestational diabetes in future pregnancies?

Gestational diabetes cannot always be prevented, but certain lifestyle changes can help lower the risk. Maintaining a healthy weight before pregnancy, following a balanced diet with high-fibre and low-GI foods, staying physically active, and having regular health check-ups can reduce the chances of developing gestational diabetes in future pregnancies.

Are there any specific foods that should be completely avoided?

It is best to avoid high-sugar and highly processed foods, as they can cause blood sugar spikes. This includes sugary drinks, sweets, white bread, pastries, and fried foods. Instead, meals should focus on whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of vegetables to help maintain stable blood sugar levels.

How soon after delivery should blood sugar levels be checked?

A blood sugar test is usually done 6 to 12 weeks after delivery to check if levels have returned to normal. If the test results are normal, regular screening is recommended every one to three years, as gestational diabetes increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future.