Gestational diabetes is a condition that affects pregnant women and is characterized by a rise in blood sugar levels due to insufficient insulin production. It could be due to the fetus producing hormones that cause insulin resistance, as well as pregnant women needing more insulin than normal. Many pregnant women produce more insulin to compensate for this, but some don’t. This can result in gestational diabetes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), gestational diabetes affects up to 10% of pregnancies.
Fortunately, gestational diabetes goes away after the baby is delivered. The condition shouldn’t be ignored, since it can cause complications that affect the mother and the developing baby. If you’ve been diagnosed with gestational diabetes, what do you do? Your primary care provider is the best resource for how to deal with gestational diabetes.
Treatment for Gestational Diabetes
You will need to make lifestyle changes after being diagnosed with gestational diabetes. Your diet should change, and it should be low in carbohydrates, high in proteins and healthy fats, and rich in fruits and vegetables. Avoid baked goods, junk food, and sweetened beverages. Try to have a handful of small meals throughout the day, as well as light snacks, including a bedtime snack. Your primary care provider or a dietitian that you may be referred to can create a healthy pregnancy meal plan specific to your needs. You have to work with your doctor to keep yourself and your developing baby as healthy as possible.
Aerobic exercise such as walking can help with blood sugar management. Inactivity, even during pregnancy, is not healthy and can cause many health conditions to develop. Your mental health could suffer, as well. Check with your provider for safe exercises you can do while pregnant.
Regular blood sugar monitoring will become a part of your routine if you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes. Your provider will teach you how to use a blood sugar meter for monitoring purposes. You have to record your A1C numbers first thing in the morning before eating and two hours after every meal. A1C levels of 6.5 or higher are high, and patients should aim to get it below 6 percent. You should take the results with you to your next appointment, so your provider can determine whether lifestyle changes alone are helping you reach your target. Your doctor may prescribe insulin injections or blood sugar-lowering medication if you fail to reach your target on your own.
Diabetes Physician Near Me
If you are experiencing symptoms of gestational diabetes, such as unusual thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue, you should see a provider as soon as possible. The physicians at Cornerstone Urgent Care Center help pregnant women take control of their blood sugar levels and would love to help you, too. We also make sure our patients control their cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
Our goal is to help you avoid gestational diabetes-related complications. Let us help you return your blood sugar levels to normal. To make an appointment with a physician, call our clinic at (585) 207-0088 or use our online form to send us a message.
