What Is Gestational Diabetes?
Gestational diabetes is high blood sugar that develops during pregnancy in women who didn’t have diabetes before. It affects how your cells use sugar and can impact both mother and baby if not managed.
Screening & Diagnosis
Typically done between weeks 24–28 via glucose challenge and tolerance tests. Early screening if you have risk factors.
Management Strategies
- Nutrition: Carbohydrate counting & balanced meals
- Monitoring: Home blood glucose checks 4–6 times daily
- Physical Activity: Safe prenatal exercises
- Medications: Insulin or metformin if lifestyle isn’t enough
Postpartum Follow-Up
Recheck glucose 6–12 weeks after birth and maintain healthy habits to reduce future type 2 risk.