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Gestational diabetes, also known as pregnancy diabetes, is characterized by abnormally high blood sugar levels during pregnancy. It generally develops midpregnancy, during the second or third trimester, and affects 4% of pregnant women in Canada. In about 90% of cases, gestational diabetes disappears after the baby is born.
Insulin is a hormone that allows sugar (glucose) to be used as a source of energy. During pregnancy, the body also produces anti-insulin hormones which decrease the effects of insulin throughout the body. Normally, the body compensates by increasing its insulin production. However, in women with gestational diabetes, this increased production fails to occur. Sugar therefore accumulates in the blood, resulting in hyperglycaemia - a condition that develops when there is too much glucose (sugar) circulating in the blood.
Some women are more likely to suffer from gestational diabetes than others. You are at a higher than average risk if:
Most women with gestational diabetes do not have any symptoms. In rare cases however, some women may experience intense fatigue, excessive thirst and increased urination.
Untreated or uncontrolled gestational diabetes can lead to many complications for both mother and baby. Women with gestational diabetes are at a greater risk of developing urinary tract infections, high blood pressure, swelling and fatigue during pregnancy. They also have a higher risk of preterm and caesarean delivery. The baby has a greater risk of being hypoglycaemic (having low blood sugar) at birth, of having jaundice, breathing problems and macrosomia (excessive birth weight).
Once they have given birth, women with gestational diabetes have an increased risk of suffering from diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. As a result, they are generally re-evaluated within six months of delivery. Nursing, exercising and healthy eating habits are encouraged to help reduce long-term problems. The baby also has a greater risk of developing diabetes later on in life.
A diabetes screening test is recommended for all women between the 24th and 28th week of pregnancy. Women who present a greater risk are screened early in their pregnancy. If the results are negative, the test is usually redone later in the pregnancy.
The screening test involves drinking a sweet solution. After an hour, glycaemia (blood sugar) is measured. If the results show levels greater than 10.3 mmol/L, the test is considered positive for gestational diabetes. If the levels are between 7.8 and 10.2 mmol/L, a confirmation test is needed.
Managing gestational diabetes is very important since it helps reduce complications for the baby and the mother.
For more information:
Diabète Québec
Diabetes Canada
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The patient information leaflets are provided by Vigilance Santé Inc. This content is for information purposes only and does not in any manner whatsoever replace the opinion or advice of your health care professional. Always consult a health care professional before making a decision about your medication or treatment.