Diabetes in pregnancy is a serious challenge that can affect many women. However, it is important to understand that “diabetes in pregnancy” is a term that encompasses two different conditions: gestationaldiabetes and pre-existing diabetes that is diagnosed or already present before pregnancy. Although both conditions involve elevated blood sugar levels, they differ in their causes, treatment and impact on the mother and baby.
In this article we will take a closer look at both conditions, discussing their symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and potential complications. You will also learn how to take care of yourself during pregnancy to minimize the risk of diabetes.
What is gestational diabetes?
Gestational diabetes is a condition that develops only during pregnancy, usually Between the 24th and 28th week . Jej przyczyną jest wzrost oporności na insulinę, hormonu odpowiedzialnego za regulację poziomu cukru we krwi. Wzrost oporności na insulinę jest naturalnym zjawiskiem w ciąży, jednak u niektórych kobiet jest on na tyle duży, że prowadzi do hiperglikemii, czyli podwyższonego poziomu glukozy we krwi.
Risk factors for gestational diabetes:
- Overweight or obese before pregnancy
- Age over 35
- Gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy
- Family history of type 2 diabetes
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Delivery of a baby weighing more than 4 kg in a previous pregnancy
How is gestational diabetes different from diabetes in pregnancy?
Diabetes in pregnancy is a term that covers all cases of diabetes that occur in pregnant women, including:
- Gestational diabetes – developing for the first time during pregnancy
- Type 1 diabetes – An autoimmune disease in which the body destroys pancreatic cells that produce insulin
- Type 2 diabetes – a metabolic disease characterized by insulin resistance and/or insulin deficiency
Key differences:
| Feature | Gestational diabetes | Diabetes in pregnancy (type 1 or 2) |
|---|---|---|
| Speech time | Develops during pregnancy | Occurs before pregnancy |
| Cause | Hormonal changes during pregnancy | Genetic, autoimmune, lifestyle factors |
| Treatment | Diet, physical activity, possibly insulin | Insulin, oral medications, diet, physical activity |
| Prognosis | Usually subsides after childbirth | Requires ongoing treatment |
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What are the symptoms of diabetes in pregnancy?
Gestational diabetes is often asymptomatic. With type 1 and type 2 diabetes, symptoms may be more pronounced.
Possible symptoms:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Increased appetite
- Weight loss (type 1 diabetes)
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Urinary tract infections
- Deterioration of vision
Remember! The absence of symptoms does not mean that you do not have diabetes. That’s why regular check-ups during pregnancy are so important.
Diagnosis of diabetes in pregnancy
The primary test in the diagnosis of diabetes in pregnancy is the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). It is performed between the 24th and 28th week of pregnancy. It involves drinking a glucose solution and measuring fasting blood sugar levels and after 1 and 2 hours.
Glycemic norms in the OGTT test for pregnant women:
- Fasting: less than 92 mg/dl (5.1 mmol/l)
- After 1 hour: less than 180 mg/dl (10.0 mmol/l)
- After 2 hours: less than 153 mg/dl (8.5 mmol/l)
If the OGTT test result is abnormal, gestational diabetes is diagnosed. If type 1 or type 2 diabetes is suspected, additional tests are performed, such as measuring blood insulin levels and antibody tests.
Treatment of diabetes in pregnancy
The goal of treating diabetes in pregnancy is to maintain normal blood sugar levels to prevent complications for mother and baby.
Treatment methods:
- Diet – a properly balanced diet with a low glycemic index is the cornerstone of gestational diabetes treatment.
- Physical activity – regular exercise helps regulate blood sugar levels.
- Insulin – in some cases it is necessary to administer insulin, especially in type 1 and type 2 diabetes and when diet and physical activity do not work.
Complications of diabetes in pregnancy
Untreated diabetes in pregnancy can lead to serious complications for both mother and child.
Complications in the mother:
- Hypertension
- Pre-eclampsia
- Premature birth
- Cesarean section
- Increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future
Complications in the child:
- Macrosomia (excessive birth weight)
- Hypoglycemia (hypoglycemia) after childbirth
- Jaundice
- Breathing problems
- Congenital defects
How to take care of yourself during pregnancy to minimize the risk of diabetes?
- Maintain a healthy body weight.
- Follow a healthy, balanced diet.
- Be physically active.
- Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly.
- Follow your doctor’s recommendations.
Summary
Diabetes in pregnancy is a serious condition that requires appropriate treatment and control. Early diagnosis and proper medical care can minimize the risk of complications and ensure the health of mother and baby. Remember that a healthy lifestyle and regular checkups are the key to a safe and healthy pregnancy.
