Pregnancy and gestational diabetes- here is what you need to know.
Pregnancy can be an overwhelming time for every mum. Our bodies go through some intense changes and it can be hard to wrap your head around everything that is happening, especially if it is your first pregnancy. One thing you need to be aware of is gestational diabetes so we decided to gather up all the vital information you need to know.
 
What is gestational diabetes?
 
Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy as a result of the woman’s inability to produce enough insulin. Insulin is a hormone that enables the body to break down sugar to be used as energy. Monitoring cases of gestational diabetes is crucial as it can have a dangerous impact on both mum and baby’s health.
 
Certain people are more likely to develop gestational diabetes including women over 35, obese women, people with a family history of type 2 diabetes, women who have given birth to a large baby in the past.
 
Women who have previously given birth to a baby born with an abnormality or have previously had a stillbirth late in pregnancy are also at risk.
 
Causes and Symptoms:
 
The hormones your body produces during pregnancy work against insulin. Gestational diabetes occurs when your body fails to produce enough insulin to overcome these hormones.
 
So, what symptoms should you keep a lookout for?
  1. Dry Mouth
  2. Extreme Thirst
  3. Blurred Vision
  4. Fatigue
  5. Frequent Urination
  6. Recurring Infections like Thrush
 
 
Treatments:
 
The most vital thing for a mum-to-be with gestational diabetes to do is control her blood sugar levels. Monitoring your blood sugar should be one of your top priorities, especially for the sake of your health. Your doctor will do this by checking your blood sugar levels on a regular basis. Eating a healthy diet and exercising daily is key, but nothing too strenuous. Walking for 20-30 minutes per day should suffice. Medical experts may suggest taking insulin injections, but don’t worry, they won’t have an impact on the baby. It is important to note that gestational diabetes tends to go away once you have given birth.
 
Brought to you in association with 4SURE Smart blood glucose monitoring system - suitable for gestational diabetes.  Ask your nurse about the 4SURE SMART strips special offer.
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