Your body will undergo a lot of changes during pregnancy. While these bodily changes vary by person, it’s common for certain body parts to swell and your appetite to increase. There is the potential for some other changes that may cause health concerns, such as gestational diabetes. During pregnancy, gestational diabetes develops in women who don’t already have diabetes. Managing gestational diabetes is important, but preventing it from occurring is even better.
When a pregnant person has gestational diabetes, their body doesn’t make enough insulin–a hormone made by the pancreas to help give your body energy– while they’re pregnant. This condition can increase the risk of high blood pressure and having a baby who’s too large for a vaginal delivery. It can also cause complications in your baby, such as low blood sugar or the development of type 2 diabetes later in life.
According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), gestational diabetes may not have symptoms. Your healthcare provider will consider your medical history and whether you have any risk factors. Testing is necessary to begin early intervention.
Gestational diabetes can affect any pregnant person, even if you do everything right. But staying active, eating healthy foods, and gaining weight at a healthy pace are all great things you can do to help lower your risk.
The Ovia Care Team can help you learn more about gestational diabetes prevention.
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