I have certainly written often about the problems and complications associated with Diabetes. However, there’s a sneaky form of Diabetes that tends to hit ladies when they’re at the most vulnerable: Gestational Diabetes.
Basically, Gestational Diabetes is when a pregnant woman has higher blood sugars throughout her pregnancy, which can lead to a number of complications for mother and baby. Even though the symptoms are few and far between for the mother during pregnancy, untreated gestational diabetes can lead to some pretty serious complications for the baby, both during the pregnancy and once the baby is born. These can include the baby being born too large, lowered blood sugar levels and jaundice.
First and foremost, pregnant mothers can take some preventative tests to check for Gestational Diabetes. This includes a “Syrup Test” where you are expected to ingest a high-glucose syrup and then have your blood sugars verified to see how your body reacted. Someone who doesn’t suffer from Gestational Diabetes will have no effect after ingesting the syrup.
The good news is that even if you are diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes, proper diet and control, in conjunction with your medical practitioner’s guidelines will ensure the birth of a healthy baby with no complications.
The Diabetes Canada website has a good article and can direct you to some links, should any of you have questions. Here’s the page: https://www.diabetes.ca/recently-diagnosed/gestational-diabetes-toolkit
There are several different types and sub-types of Diabetes, but this one hits close to home. If you’re pregnant, be sure to speak to your medical practitioner and get tested for Gestational Diabetes. Your health and the health of your baby may depend on it. ☯
