Am I At Risk Of Developing Gestational Diabetes?

Are you a pregnant woman over 25?

Are you overweight (body mass index (BMI)> 24)?

Does anyone in your family (one of your parents or siblings) have or have had diabetes (type 1, type 2 or gestational diabetes)?

Have you been diagnosed with prediabetes (you have a blood glucose level higher than normal, but still not high enough to be considered diabetes)?

If you have already given birth, did you have gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy?

If you have already given birth, have you previously deliver a baby who weighed more than 9 pounds (4.1 kilograms)?

Are you African American, Native American, Asian, Latino, or Pacific Islander?

Do you lead a sedentary lifestyle (with little or no time for physical activity)?

Based on your answers you have a low risk of developing gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that occurs in women for the first time during pregnancy. Elevated blood glucose levels are a consequence of hormones released by the placenta. It is not entirely clear why some women develop gestational diabetes and others do not, but the fact is that gestational diabetes is more common in women who become pregnant after the age of 25 as well as those who were overweight before pregnancy. Although, there is no sure way to prevent gestational diabetes, try to adopt as many healthy habits as possible before pregnancy.

Based on your answers you have a moderate risk of developing gestational diabetes. It is very important to start a pregnancy with a healthy weight. Good eating habits can help you feel good and maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy. It is perfectly normal to gain weight during pregnancy, but gaining weight too quickly can put you at risk for gestational diabetes. Your doctor can help you make a diet plan to keep your blood glucose levels in a healthy range. Regular exercise can also reduce the risk of gestational diabetes; try moderate exercise for half an hour a day. You can swim, walk or ride a bike.

Based on your answers you have a high risk of developing gestational diabetes. Elevated blood glucose levels during pregnancy must be monitored and treated, because otherwise it can create health problems for both the mother and the baby. Your doctor will probably check your blood glucose level early in pregnancy and then in the second trimester (about 24 to 28 weeks). A test called the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) is used to diagnose gestational diabetes. To avoid problems caused by diabetes, your doctor will make a treatment plan that can include changes in diet and lifestyle, and medication.