WHAT IS IT?
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a type of diabetes that first appears in a pregnant woman who has no prior history of the condition. Like other types of diabetes, GDM causes high blood glucose levels that can affect the pregnancy and the health of the fetus. It usually appears in the middle of pregnancy. Doctors most often diagnose this condition between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. Some women may experience it in more than one pregnancy. Gestational diabetes can often be managed through diet and regular exercise, but sometimes insulin treatment may be necessary. At the clinics CarE MediC , all pregnant women with GDM receive thorough monitoring, management, and treatment.
In women with gestational diabetes, blood sugar levels usually return to normal after the baby is born. However, a history of GDM is associated with a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Periodic blood sugar monitoring will be necessary.
RISK FACTORS
Some women are at higher risk for PCOS. The risk factors for developing PCOS are:
- Excess Weight and Obesity
- Lack of physical activity
- Previous gestational diabetes
- Pre-diabetes
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
- Family History of SD
- Delivery history: infant birth weight > 4.1 kg
- Non-Caucasian race
SYMPTOMS
For most women, PCOS does not cause any noticeable signs or symptoms. Increased thirst and more frequent urination are the most common.
WHEN SHOULD I SEE A DIABETOLOGIST?
Prevention is the best approach. First, if you are planning to become pregnant, your doctor can assess your risk of developing GDM. At the start of your pregnancy, you’ll be screened for GDM as part of your prenatal care. If you develop GDM, you may need to be tested more frequently, especially during the last three months of pregnancy.