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Gestational diabetes

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Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that is first diagnosed during pregnancy. Like other types of diabetes, it affects how your cells use sugar (glucose). Expectant mothers need to know that although gestational diabetes goes away after your baby is born, it does increase your risk for type 2 diabetes later in life.

Gestational diabetes can cause high blood sugar that can affect your pregnancy and your baby's health. Potential complications for the baby include excessive birth weight, early (preterm) birth and respiratory distress syndrome, hypoglycemia, and type 2 diabetes later in life. Complications for the mother include preeclampsia and subsequent gestational diabetes.

You may be at higher risk of developing diabetes in pregnancy (gestational diabetes) if you:

  • are overweight
  • have had diabetes in pregnancy before
  • have had a baby weighing 4.5kg (9.9lb) or more before
  • have a close relative with diabetes
  • have a south Asian, black or African Caribbean, or Middle Eastern family background

If you're considered to be at high risk for gestational diabetes, you may be offered a test called the OGTT (oral glucose tolerance test). This involves drinking a sugary drink and having blood tests. The OGTT is done when you're between 24 and 28 weeks pregnant.

If you're diagnosed with gestational diabetes, your doctor or dietitian can guide you on a healthy diet plan, suggest you monitor your blood sugar levels, exercise regularly, or even recommend insulin therapy in some cases.

At Lola&Lykke, we understand that navigating these health issues can be overwhelming, and we want to support you in any way we can. That's why we're proud to have a team of health experts on board to provide you with the advice and support you need during this journey.

For more information on other pregnancy-related topics, don't forget to check out our comprehensive pregnancy health resources, where you'll find useful information to guide you through your pregnancy journey.

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    by Lola&Lykke Team