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Risk Factors
- Being overweight or obese
- You’ve had gestational diabetes before
- Family history of diabetes – parent or sibling
- Previously had a very large baby (weighing 4.5kg (10lb) or more at birth)
- you are of south Asian, Black, African-Caribbean or Middle Eastern origin
Signs & Symptoms
Although some women can develop some of the following symptoms:
- Tiredness
- Dry Mouth
- Increased Thirst
- Frequent need to urinate
However some of these symptoms are common during pregnancy too, therefore it does not necessarily mean you have gestational diabetes. If you are worried you should speak to your doctor.
Gestational diabetes usually goes away after you have given birth, however women who have had it are more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes.
Management
Gestational diabetes can lead to some complications in pregnancy like induced labour or c-section. Your doctor and healthcare team will be able to advise you and support the management of your condition, to prevent any complications. The following ways can help control your blood sugar levels during pregnancy.
A healthy diet
Make sure you are eating regularly – 3 meals per day avoid skipping any
Eat starch based foods that release sugar slowly ie wholewheat pasta, brown rice, muesli, lentils
Aim to eat at least 5 portions of fruit and vegetables a day
Lean sources of protein ie fish
Avoid sugary foods and drinks
Exercise
physical activity reduces blood glucose level
Medicine
Your doctor may give you medication if your levels are not controlled with management of diet and exercise
