Gestational diabetes is a serious pregnancy condition that usually develops during the second trimester. Although there’s no way to completely eliminate the risk of developing it, there may be some ways to reduce your risk.
What is gestational diabetes?
Gestational diabetes is the occurrence of diabetes during pregnancy. Diabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels are elevated from typical and safe levels when fasting before eating and/or after meals. Once a person has developed gestational diabetes, it will require management until after giving birth and may cause problems for the pregnancy and the baby if left untreated.
What are some risk factors for gestational diabetes?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), risk factors for gestational diabetes can include:
- Having gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy
- Having had a 9-pound baby or greater in the past
- Being overweight
- History of PCOS or prediabetes
- Being African American, Hispanic or Latino, Native American, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander
- Being pregnant and having a family history of type 2 diabetes
But anyone with a placenta can get gestational diabetes. Pregnancy hormones can greatly impact how your body manages blood sugar, even if you have no risk factors and do everything “right.” Having gestational diabetes is never your fault.
What are some good ways to prevent gestational diabetes?
Because gestational diabetes is never completely preventable, it’s always smart to make sure you follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations as far as diagnostic testing goes. Sticking to healthy routines like regular physical activity, eating nutritious foods, reducing stress, and prioritizing quality sleep can all be ways to reduce your risk. Many healthcare providers suggest exercising at least 30 minutes a day, 4 or 5 times a week. Staying away from sweetened beverages in favor of water or unsweetened options is also a good bet. Those at high risk for developing gestational diabetes should receive early pregnancy testing for it and may want to work on lifestyle changes from early on in pregnancy.
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Sources
- “Gestational Diabetes: FAQ177.” ACOG. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 9/13/2015. Web.
- Deirdre K. Tobias, SM, Cuilin Zhang, MD, PHD, Rob M. van Dam, MD, PHD, Katherine Bowers, PHD, Frank B. Hu, MD, PHD. “Physical Activity Before and During Pregnancy and Risk of Gestational Diabetes MellitusPhysical Activity Before and During Pregnancy and Risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus.” Diabetes Care. American Diabetes Association, 9/27/2010. Web.
- About Gestational Diabetes. CDC, 6/5/2024. Web https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/about/gestational-diabetes.html
