Gestational Diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops or is first recognized
during pregnancy. In some women, insulin resistance increases during pregnancy.
If your pancreas cannot make enough insulin, you will have gestational
diabetes. Most women are screened for gestation diabetes at 24-28 weeks.
If you have a higher chance of getting gestational diabetes, your doctor
may test you for diabetes during your first visit after you become pregnant.
Your chances of getting gestational diabetes are higher if you:
Had a previous pregnancy with gestational diabetes
Have given birth to a baby weighing more than nine pounds
Are overweight or obese
Have a family history of diabetes
Are African American, American Indian, Asian American, Hispanic/Latina
or Pacific Islander American
Have a hormonal disorder called polycystic ovary syndrome, also known as PCOS
Gestational diabetes is usually treated with dietary management and control
of blood sugar levels. Managing gestational diabetes is very important
in order to protect the baby. Babies born to mothers with uncontrolled
gestational diabetes can be overly large at birth, making delivery more
dangerous. Children exposed to diabetes in the womb are more likely to
become obese during childhood and adolescence, and develop type 2 diabetes
later in life.
Usually, gestational diabetes goes away after the baby is born. However,
women who have had gestational diabetes are at higher risk for developing
type 2 diabetes later in life, so healthy eating, physical activity and
weight maintenance are important steps to prevention.
For questions or to schedule an appointment, please call
701.780.6400.
Note: You will need a referral from your primary care provider to schedule an
appointment with the Diabetes Center.
