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The pregnancy phase is a life-changing experience - with lots of emotions, experiences, and challenges. Diabetes during pregnancy, also called Gestational diabetes, is one of the specific challenges that can make it a high-risk pregnancy, with increased risk factors for the mother and newborn. Therefore, precise management of blood sugar levels during pregnancy is vital.
Synopsis
Importance of Managing Diabetes During Pregnancy
Gestational diabetes is high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia) in pregnant women which may trigger severe issues for the mother and the unborn child. Medical attention, lifestyle modifications, and ongoing surveillance are all required for effective management of Diabetes for the expectant mother. The care begins before conception and is needed throughout pregnancy and delivery.
Diabetes and Pregnancy: Risks to Consider
Diabetes during pregnancy is closely linked to different complications, both in the mother and the baby which include a high risk of miscarriage, hypertension in pregnancy, and its associated complications, premature delivery, difficult delivery, stillbirth, and risk factors in the baby that include abnormalities, big baby, neonatal hypoglycemia among others. Pre-existing diabetes is different from gestational diabetes and, therefore, requires additional surveillance.
Gestational Diabetes vs. Pre-existing Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is the diabetes that is first detected during pregnancy. In most cases, it resolves itself after delivery. Women who have this type of diabetes are more likely to develop diabetes later in their lives and also carry a higher risk of the offspring having diabetes later in life.
Pregnancy is not a factor for women with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is marked by the body's inability to make insulin which is common in children and teenagers. Having pre-existing diabetes may result in complications associated with damaged blood vessels like small babies, hypertension in pregnancy, and eye and cardiac complications in pregnancy.
Managing Diabetes During Pregnancy
Here are the crucial tips to manage high blood sugar levels:
Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose: Keeping glucose levels within a safe range averts the risks. Effective management prevents or at least delays the onset of complications like hypertension. Furthermore, it allows doctors to make better choices regarding your diet and medications. It also helps identify trends and patterns in glucose levels.
Diet and Nutrition Tips: Taking the right amount of healthy food is important in pregnancy. Adopt these easy ways:
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Firstly, avoid high-calorie foods like sweets and chocolates as they may shoot up blood sugar levels rapidly.
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Reducing the serving size allows for better blood glucose management.
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Ensure your diabetic diet during pregnancy must have whole grains, lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, etc.
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Monitor carbohydrate and fatty food intake to manage blood sugar levels effectively.
Medical Management: Many women with diabetes may require insulin therapy to manage blood sugar levels during pregnancy. Some oral medications also might be considered safe under your doctor’s supervision to reduce the symptoms of diabetes during pregnancy.
Regular Prenatal Care: Prenatal care assists doctors in detecting any potential complications early on. These visits alleviate complications and allow for timely adjustments to treatment plans.
Exercises During Pregnancy with Diabetes: Regular physical activity can help manage blood sugar levels and improve overall health. Consult with your obstetrician and physiotherapist to develop a safe exercise plan.
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Walking or swimming
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Strength exercise
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Modified yoga
Stress Management and Mental Health Considerations: Managing stress is crucial, as it can affect blood sugar levels. There are several effective techniques available to cope with stress during pregnancy, including:
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Meditation
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Breathing exercises
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Yoga
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Counselling
For further assistance, book an appointment with our best Gynaecologist in Malleshwaram.
Preparing for Labor and Delivery
Besides all these measures, having a comprehensive birth plan is also important for managing diabetes during pregnancy risks. The detailed plan comprises protocols to address the high sugar levels and effective medication options to manage it during delivery. Your doctor will also discuss different delivery and pain management methods and their implications for diabetes management. Each delivery method has different potential impacts on blood sugar control:
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Vaginal Birth: It can cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Continuous glucose monitoring facilitates optimal blood sugar control.
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Cesarean Section: It is reserved in situations where it is absolutely necessary, and must be discussed with the obstetrician.
Managing diabetes during pregnancy requires a proactive approach. Expectant mothers can achieve healthy outcomes with the right support, lifestyle modifications, and targeted care. Staying in regular touch with an experienced OBG is a great way to ensure your and your child’s safety! Consult our Gynaecology Hospital in Malleshwaram to find the best ways to ensure that safety. Check our blog page to know further updates that are occurring in these fields of the medical world.
FAQ's
Follow these key steps to maintain your blood sugar during pregnancy:
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Review blood glucose targets
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Achieve target Glycosylated hemoglobin levels before attempting pregnancy if you have pre-existing diabetes.
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Monitor general health and status of any diabetes-related complications
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Aim for optimal weight and, if overweight, start weight loss before pregnancy with healthy eating
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Review medications
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Start folic acid supplementation after doctor consultation if planning for pregnancy
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Proactive management and seeking support are key to a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
You should try the following techniques to relieve stress:
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Meditation as prescribed by your doctor
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Breathing Exercises
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Yoga
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Counselling
If you have gestational diabetes, several maternal and fetal complications can show up early including fetal demise.
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