Gestational Diabetes: What is it and Tips
Diabetes and pregnancy
If you are pregnant or planning to have a baby, you need to take extra care of yourself. Keeping your glucose at a good level may also help you have a healthy baby.
women who already have diabetes (either type 1 or type 2)…
Women who already have diabetes (either type 1 or type 2) and become pregnant can have healthy babies. Keeping glucose levels in a good range and seeing a healthcare provider often are necessary. Your glucose levels may be harder to manage as the pregnancy continues. This is due to higher levels of hormones. You will need to check your glucose levels often, eat healthy and take the insulin your healthcare provider recommends.
gestational diabetes mellitus
Women who have never had diabetes, but develop high blood sugar levels during pregnancy may have gestational diabetes. Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) occurs in about 10% of all pregnant women. It is first seen in the second or third trimester. GDM does put a woman at risk for type 2 diabetes.
tips
Meet with your healthcare provider to work out a plan to tightly manage
your glucose levels.
Make an appointment with a dietitian about a meal plan.
Check your glucose levels as often as your healthcare provider tells you.
This may be four to six times a day or more
Check your urine for ketones, if advised. Your healthcare team can help you understand the results and what to do.
1 https://diabetes.org/about-diabetes/gestational-diabetes. Accessed 04/2024.
This site is for educational purposes only. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider before making any decisions about your health.
RESOURCES
