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Gestational diabetes is a condition in which the level of sugar in your blood becomes higher than normal. This condition usually develops in the second trimester and most often returns to normal soon after delivery. High blood sugar levels can affect both the mother and development and growth of the baby. Normally there will not be any symptoms except for extreme thirst, hunger or tiredness that may be experienced occasionally. The screening test for diabetes is done in the 28th week of pregnancy. Your doctor checks your blood glucose level using a test called a fasting blood glucose test. Other tests such as screening glucose challenge test and oral glucose tolerance test may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Pregnancy induced diabetes can usually be controlled by certain dietary changes, regular exercise, and frequent blood tests as suggested by your doctor. Some cases might also require use of insulin to keep blood sugar levels under control. Poorly controlled or uncontrolled gestational diabetes increases the risk of preeclampsia, preterm delivery, large-sized baby, caesarean section, newborn with low blood sugar, breathing difficulties and jaundice. Even if gestational diabetes goes away after your baby is born, it increases your risk for diabetes later in your life. Therefore, it is important to exercise, eat a healthy diet and maintain a healthy weight after pregnancy.

The University of Western Australia Glengarry Private Hospital