03 Aug Diabetes During Pregnancy: Should You Be Worried?
Women getting diagnosed with diabetes during their pregnancy have a condition called gestational diabetes. It usually does not have any noticeable signs, but there could be symptoms of increased thirst and frequent urination.
Pregnant women can have an increased likelihood of getting gestational diabetes due to:
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
- prediabetes
- polycystic ovarian syndrome
- family history of diabetes
Experts are still looking at the possible cause of gestational diabetes, including why it occurs for other women and others don’t. However, it is believed that genetics and lifestyle habits could play a role.
Health Complications
Gestational diabetes can bring health complications for both the mother and the baby.
For baby:
- Excessive birth weight
- Early birth
- Serious breathing difficulties
- Low blood sugar
- A possibility of obesity and type 2 diabetes in the future
- Still birth
For mom:
- High blood pressure and preeclampsia
- Having a C-section
- Future diabetes
Prevention
Women eyeing to get pregnant can prevent having gestational diabetes through making lifestyle changes, including their dietary habits.
Here are ways to decrease your chances of being diagnosed of gestational diabetes:
- Eat a balanced diet: cut down carbohydrates and sugar and increase your fiber intake. Eat enough to get the needed calories and nutrients during pregnancy.
- Maintain a healthy weight: it will also help to start your pregnancy with a healthy weight.
- Keep moving: at least 30 minutes of exercise can help to lower blood sugar. Suitable exercises for pregnant women include swimming, cycling, and brisk walking.
Your pregnancy can be a smooth journey with the help of reliable family members and credible specialists. Get to know more about your health needs during pregnancy here https://shop.insularhealthcare.com.ph/products/maternity-care.html
SOURCE:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gestational-diabetes/symptoms-causes/syc-20355339