Jul 01, 2024
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a condition that develops during pregnancy. High blood sugar levels characterize it. It’s temporary. But, it needs careful management. This is to prevent problems for the mother and baby. Jaipur is known for its rich culture and advanced healthcare. Women can get specialized care at Saket Hospital. This hospital is known for its expertise in endocrinology. It has some of the best endocrinologists in Jaipur. They ensure comprehensive support for women with gestational diabetes.
Gestational diabetes occurs when the body can’t make enough insulin. This happens to meet the higher needs during pregnancy. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to insulin resistance. The body’s cells become less responsive to insulin. As a result, blood sugar levels can rise, leading to gestational diabetes.
Several factors contribute to the development of gestational diabetes:
Insulin Resistance: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make cells more resistant to insulin. The resistance makes the pancreas produce more insulin. This keeps blood sugar normal. The pancreas may not keep up with the increased demand. This can raise blood sugar levels and cause gestational diabetes.
Hormonal Changes: The placenta produces hormones that help sustain pregnancy. Some of these hormones can interfere with insulin action, contributing to insulin resistance.
Risk Factors:
Overweight or obesity raises the risk for women. This is due to higher insulin resistance. They face this risk before pregnancy.
Age: Women over the age of 25 are more likely to develop gestational diabetes.
Family History: Having a parent or sibling with diabetes increases the risk.
Previous Gestational Diabetes: Women who have had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy are at higher risk.
Ethnicity: Women of some ethnicities are at more risk. These include South Asian, Hispanic, African, and Native American women.
Doctors usually screen for gestational diabetes at 24 to 28 weeks of pregnancy. But, they may screen high-risk women earlier. The screening involves a glucose challenge test. The woman drinks a sugary solution and has her blood sugar levels tested after one hour. If the result is high, a follow-up test is done to confirm the diagnosis.
Managing gestational diabetes is key. It reduces the risk of complications for both the mother and baby.
Maternal Complications:
Preeclampsia: High blood pressure can occur during pregnancy. It can lead to serious problems for both mother and baby.
Increased Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: Women who have had gestational diabetes are at higher risk. They are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Delivery Complications: Gestational diabetes raises the risk of needing a C-section. This is due to fetal macrosomia or other birth issues.
Fetal and Neonatal Complications:
Macrosomia: Babies born to mothers with uncontrolled gestational diabetes may be larger than average. They are “macrosomic,” which can lead to birth injuries and delivery problems.
After birth, babies born to mothers with gestational diabetes may have low blood sugar levels. This is as their own insulin production increases.
Respiratory Distress Syndrome: Babies born prematurely to mothers with gestational diabetes are at higher risk. This is because the lungs are immature. It raises the risk of respiratory distress syndrome.
At Saket Hospital in Jaipur, women with gestational diabetes receive special care. They are guided by expert endocrinologists. The hospital emphasizes personalized treatment plans that may include:
Dietary Management:I work closely with dietitians. We develop meal plans to regulate blood sugar levels. The plans also ensure enough nutrition for both mother and baby.
Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels: Regularly monitor blood sugar levels. Use this to track the treatment plan’s effectiveness. Make adjustments as needed.
Physical Activity: Encouraging regular physical activity to improve insulin sensitivity and manage blood sugar levels.
Gestational diabetes is a manageable condition. It requires proactive care to ensure the best outcomes for both mother and baby. Women in Jaipur benefit from top healthcare. The city has facilities like Saket Hospital. Expert endocrinologists there provide specialized care and support during pregnancy. Saket Hospital provides personalized treatment plans, education, and collaborative care. They help women manage gestational diabetes safely and have a healthy pregnancy journey.
If you are pregnant or plan to conceive, and have risk factors for gestational diabetes, seek screening and intervention early. Go to a reputable institution like Saket Hospital. It can greatly impact your pregnancy. Trust top endocrinologist hospital in Jaipur . Take proactive steps to manage gestational diabetes. This will have a positive outcome for both you and your baby.
