Signs of Gestational diabetes (Diabetes during pregnancy)

Gestational Diabetes (Diabetes During Pregnancy)

Description

A condition in pregnancy leading to high blood glucose (sugar) levels. About 3%-5% of all pregnant women in the U.S. are diagnosed with gestational diabetes. The following conditions increase the risk of developing gestational diabetes: being over 25, family history of type 2 diabetes, having prediabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and being of non-white descent. Women with this disorder are more likely to have abnormally high birth weight babies (macrosomia), babies with low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), babies that develop type 2 diabetes later in life, premature deliveries, and problems delivering the baby secondary to the large size of the baby.

Symptoms

Some women do not have specific symptoms. Others may experience urinating at night, dizziness, blurred vision, increased thirst, increased urination, excessive vomiting.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. Glucose measurements will be done including a oral glucose tolerance test.

Standard Workup

CBC
Chem 12
BHCG
UA
EKG

Treatment

Therapy depends on the level of the blood sugar. Treatment includes dietary changes, exercise, glucose lowering medication, and close monitoring of the baby during the pregnancy.