In a recent interview, Diana Rapalo, an expert on gestational diabetes, sheds light on this condition and its impact on both mothers and babies. Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy and requires careful management to ensure a healthy outcome. In this blog, we will summarize the key points discussed in the interview to provide a comprehensive overview of gestational diabetes.
Diabetes is a condition characterized by high blood sugar or glucose levels. Glucose serves as the primary source of energy in our bodies and is derived mainly from carbohydrates and sugars in our diet. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, acts as a key to allow glucose to enter our cells and provide energy. In diabetes, there is either insufficient insulin production or the existing insulin is not effectively utilized, leading to high blood sugar levels.
Diana explains that there are different types of diabetes, including type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is the most common and is often associated with factors such as obesity and sedentary lifestyles. It can be managed through dietary changes, exercise, oral medications, or insulin injections if necessary. On the other hand, type 1 diabetes typically occurs in children and young adults and requires lifelong insulin administration.
Gestational Diabetes: Gestational diabetes, as Diana clarifies, is unique because it develops exclusively during pregnancy. It affects women who did not have diabetes prior to becoming pregnant. Hormonal changes and insulin resistance caused by the placenta are believed to contribute to the development of gestational diabetes.
To diagnose gestational diabetes, a glucose tolerance test is conducted during the later stages of pregnancy. If the test results indicate high blood sugar levels, further testing is done to confirm the diagnosis. Poorly controlled gestational diabetes can lead to complications for the baby, including excessive fetal growth, shoulder dislocation during birth, and an increased risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes later in life.
Uncontrolled gestational diabetes can also pose risks to the mother, such as preeclampsia, a condition characterized by high blood pressure. It can lead to complications like stroke, seizures, and premature delivery. Additionally, women who have had gestational diabetes are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future.
While it is challenging to prevent gestational diabetes entirely, there are steps women can take to minimize the risks. Maintaining a healthy weight before pregnancy, adopting a nutritious diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and attending prenatal care appointments are all crucial preventive measures. By managing their weight and lifestyle factors, women can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing gestational diabetes.
Gestational diabetes is a condition that requires careful monitoring and management to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby. Through proper prenatal care, lifestyle adjustments, and timely medical intervention, women can effectively manage gestational diabetes and minimize its potential complications. Regular check-ups, glucose testing, and adherence to medical advice are essential in promoting positive outcomes for both mother and child.