Signs of Gestational Diabetes

There may be no symptoms or signs of gestational diabetes, which is why doctors typically review the risk factors to determine if testing should be conducted. Here you can learn about the risk factors and symptoms that might be related to high glucose levels and effective treatments.

A woman’s blood sugar normally becomes higher during the second trimester of pregnancy due to increased insulin resistance in the cells, but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. The cause of increased insulin resistance is not exactly clear, but it is thought to ensure a continued glucose supply to the growing fetus.

The role of insulin in the body is to trigger the cells to accept glucose from the bloodstream and burn it for energy. When the cells become resistant to insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, which can be damaging to the health of the mother and the baby.

Some Symptoms to look for

The risk factors for the condition include:

• Previous diagnosis of gestational diabetes
• Family history of type II diabetes (adult onset)
• Being over the age of 35
• Ethnic background---African-Americans, Native Americans, Hispanics and Pacific Islanders are at higher risk
• Being overweight or obese before pregnancy
• Smoking

The condition generally responds well to dietary changes and exercise. Doctors typically recommend monitoring your own blood sugar levels at home to ensure that diet and exercise are effective. In some cases, insulin is needed to reduce blood glucose levels.

The goal of dietary changes is to prevent spikes in blood sugar. Women are advised to eat three small meals and two to three snacks at regular times throughout the day, avoid simple carbohydrates and avoid fatty, fried or greasy foods.

Exercise is recommended, because it naturally lowers blood sugar levels. If insulin is prescribed, women need to learn how to treat hypoglycemia or low blood sugar a serious problem that can occur when insulin is injected.

If you believe that you are experiencing the signs of gestational diabetes, you should consult your doctor. He or she will conduct an oral, blood or urine test to measure blood sugar levels, if it is deemed necessary.

Professional Input

Not all doctors and organizations believe that universal screening is necessary. For example, the American Diabetes Association and the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada recommend routine screening unless a woman is under the age of 25 and has a BMI of less than 27, with no other risk factors.

The subject of screening is somewhat controversial, but most experts feel that it is the safest choice, because the symptoms and signs of gestational diabetes are often overlooked.