Experts suggest that gestational diabetes can be classified into two main types. Dr. Sara White is working on utilizing ultrasound measurements of infants to differentiate between these types, with the goal of improving care for thousands of women in the UK each year.
Background to research
Typically occurring during pregnancy, gestational diabetes can lead to complications during delivery and increase the chances of type 2 diabetes for both the mother and the baby.
Researchers have identified two variants of gestational diabetes: one where the body doesn’t produce enough insulin, and another where insulin resistance arises due to the body’s inability to use insulin effectively.
In the subtype with insulin resistance, babies are at a higher risk of excessive growth in the womb, which poses dangers to both the mother and the child.
Research aims
Dr. Sara White and her team are conducting a study to examine the impact of gestational diabetes types on fetal growth and the development of body fat. They will use ultrasound scans from 750 women of various ethnic backgrounds.
Their objective is to determine the subtype of gestational diabetes in a woman, predict potential complications, and explore variations among different ethnic groups.
Potential benefit to people with diabetes
With over 100,000 cases of gestational diabetes reported annually in the UK, research in this field can help foresee individual risks and complications, leading to personalized care for pregnant women.
Regular monitoring is crucial during pregnancy to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and identify any issues.
Checking your blood sugar level
It’s essential to monitor blood sugar levels regularly using a testing kit and follow guidance on the frequency of testing and target glucose levels. Consider utilizing continuous glucose monitoring for better control.
In addition to regular blood sugar monitoring, it’s important to keep track of your diet and physical activity levels. Making healthy food choices and staying active can help control your blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of complications.
Remember to consult with your healthcare provider about the best monitoring schedule and target glucose levels for your individual needs. They can provide personalized guidance and support to help you manage your blood sugar effectively.
A healthy diet
Adjusting your diet can assist in managing blood sugar levels. Consult a dietitian for meal planning focusing on low glycemic index foods, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins while avoiding sugary snacks and drinks.
Exercise
Engaging in physical activity helps in regulating blood sugar levels, with a recommendation of at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly. Those with gestational diabetes can receive support through the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme.
Medicine
If diet and exercise are not effective in stabilizing blood sugar levels, medication such as metformin tablets or insulin injections may be required, which can be adjusted as pregnancy progresses.
Tablets
Metformin tablets may lead to side effects like nausea or diarrhea; alternatively, glibenclamide may be prescribed. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication to manage gestational diabetes.
Insulin
Insulin may be recommended if other treatments fail or in cases of high blood sugar levels or fetal complications. Insulin pens are used for self-injection to manage blood sugar levels. It is crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and injection instructions provided by a healthcare professional to effectively control gestational diabetes.
Monitoring your pregnancy
Additional antenatal appointments are provided to monitor the baby’s growth for women with gestational diabetes.
Giving birth
The optimal time for delivery with gestational diabetes is typically between weeks 38 to 40. Induction or caesarean section might be advised if necessary.
After birth
After delivery, it’s important to feed your baby promptly to stabilize blood sugar levels and maintain regular feeding intervals.
Your baby’s blood sugar levels will be checked shortly after birth, and if low, they may need to be fed through a tube or drip. If they require care, they might be monitored in a specialized neonatal unit. Medication for controlling blood sugar levels is usually discontinued after birth, with monitoring required for a few days. In most cases, both you and your baby can return home after 24 hours if everything is well.
A blood test to screen for diabetes is recommended 6 to 13 weeks after giving birth. If results are normal, annual testing is advised due to the increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes post-gestational diabetes.
Regular healthcare visits during pregnancy are emphasized, including monitoring blood sugar levels and conducting various tests. Ultrasound scans are performed at different stages of pregnancy to check for birth defects and genetic conditions.
Throughout pregnancy, urine samples are used to check for ketones and protein, while additional blood tests monitor general health and insulin levels. Recommendations for a balanced diet, folic acid supplementation, and regular screenings are provided for optimal health of both mother and baby.
It is encouraged to have regular visits to the diabetes antenatal clinic to receive ongoing support in managing diabetes during pregnancy and birth, focusing on blood sugar levels, insulin adjustments, and birth planning.
Breastfeeding is beneficial but may elevate the risk of low blood sugar episodes. Adjusting insulin or tablets and having snacks readily available are recommended strategies to manage blood sugar levels while breastfeeding.
Remember to stay hydrated, get enough rest, and reach out to healthcare professionals for any concerns or questions you may have during this important postpartum period.
Contact us
If you have any questions or wish to speak with the diabetes antenatal team, please contact us.
Phone: 020 7188 1993, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
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Address: Diabetes and endocrine day centre, 3rd floor, Lambeth Wing, St Thomas’ Hospital, Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7EH
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Pregnancy presents challenges like discomfort, dietary restrictions, and morning sickness. However, it can also result in gestational diabetes, a potentially serious complication.
Elizabeth Whelan, APRN, of OSF Maternal-Fetal Medicine, provides care for women with gestational diabetes, offering insights into the condition and its effects on pregnancy.
Concerned about diabetes?
“Prevent diabetes by maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and following a balanced diet,” advises Elizabeth.
What is gestational diabetes?
Gestational diabetes is exclusive to pregnancy and arises from insulin resistance caused by a placental hormone. Left untreated, it can lead to issues for the baby such as excessive birth weight and pre-term birth, among others.
Risk factors for gestational diabetes include being overweight, lack of physical activity, and a family history of diabetes.
Screening for diabetes typically occurs between 24-28 weeks of pregnancy. Lifestyle modifications and monitoring are essential for managing the condition.
Living with gestational diabetes
Gestational diabetes necessitates lifestyle changes, including healthy eating and physical activity. Monitoring blood sugar levels and potential insulin therapy may be required.
Regular appointments and monitoring are vital to ensure the well-being of both mother and baby.
Continuing physical activity throughout pregnancy can help in controlling blood sugar levels. Follow-up appointments post-delivery are crucial for monitoring diabetes risks.
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About the author Ken Harris
Ken Harris, a proud father, provides insights as a writing coordinator at OSF HealthCare.
With a journalism background and experience as a newspaper reporter, Ken now enjoys reading, fishing, and spending time with family.