Gestational diabetes is one of the diabetes mellitus conditions which occur in a non-diabetic pregnancy woman. This condition usually develops near the end of the 3rd trimester or the beginning of the 4th trimester. This condition usually returns to normal soon after delivery.

Gestational diabetes affects the way the body uses glucose. Glucose is used by the cells in the body for fuel for growth and energy. Abnormal glucose levels while pregnant can be extremely harmful to both the mother and the baby.

During pregnancy the placenta which protects the baby, produces a number of various hormones. They all work against insulin which causes blood glucose levels to rise and the further you are in your pregnancy, the more these hormones interfere with the insulin until your blood glucose level develops to level which is unhealthy and can affect the development and growth of the baby.

Gestational diabetes usually does not manifest any symptoms. Once you become pregnant, the doctor will address the subject of gestational diabetes with you during your regular pre-natal visits.

But there is also good news, as with diet changes, exercise and perhaps some injections of insulin, gestational diabetes can be well managed during pregnancy.

Once gestational diabetes is diagnosed, your doctor will want you to monitor your blood glucose levels several times daily. This can be done at home with a glucometer. You will also need to meet with a dietician who will help you to develop a diet that will work well with your pregnancy as well as your blood glucose level.

You will also be advised to exercise 3 to 4 times a week. Not intense exercising but perhaps walking or swimming for 15 to 30 minutes a session. If you have not been exercising before your pregnancy, you should begin your exercise program gradually starting out with 10 to 15 minutes a session then working up. If diet and exercise do not keep your blood glucose levels near normal your doctor may add insulin injections to your "to do" list. There are also some oral medications which are available but some doctors do not like to prescribe oral medications during pregnancy.

Being pregnant with a disease like this can be very troublesome but with the medical care which we have today for diabetes, your disease will be managed carefully, so there is no need to worry. If you learn as much as you can about the disease it will probably put your mind at ease. And remember that stress is not good for either you or your baby. Just manage your self care items, and walk during the week and before you know it you will be holding your new baby and both of you will be just fine.

Learn More about Gestational Diabetes

	Symptoms of Gestational Diabetes Generally, gestational diabetes might not cause any symptoms, but the pregnant woman may experience a large gain of weight, extreme hunger and thirst, excessive urination...Read more...
	Prevention of Gestational Diabetes Prevention of gestational diabetes can not be possible with some women. But there are ways to lower the risk in developing gestational diabetes in most women...Read more...
	Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes When you become pregnant, your physician will check your blood glucose level as one of the normal battery of tests done with any care during pregnancy.  If you are in a risk group and your test results....Read more...
	Causes of Gestational Diabetes Almost all women have a level of weakened glucose intolerance as a result of hormonal changes which occur during pregnancy. This means that their blood glucose may be higher than normal....Read more...
	Treatment of Gestational Diabetes You’re pregnant but you have just been diagnosed with gestational diabetes and right now you are very scared. But be reassured that most women who have developed gestational diabetes...Read more...
	Medications for Gestational Diabetes Gestational diabetes is when diabetes occurs in non-diabetic women while pregnant.  The diabetes usually begins in the 5th to 6th month of the pregnancy and usually quickly disappears soon after delivery...Read more...
	Management of Gestational Diabetes Women with gestational diabetes need to follow a carefully regulated meal plan. This involves having small but frequent meals and lots of water.  The diet should have three meals and three snacks daily...Read more...