High levels of blood glucose or sugar during pregnancy pose a risk for both baby and mother. According to an estimate from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), two to 10 pregnant women in every 100 are affected by gestational diabetes or the development of high blood sugar levels after conceiving a child. It normally disappears after the birth of the baby.
If untreated, this condition can increase the risks of giving birth to large babies, thus leading to birth complications, preterm birth, babies with low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and jaundice, seizures or still birth. Apart from these, gestational diabetes puts women at higher risks of developing type 2 diabetes later, compared to women not having any history of gestational diabetes.
Numbers higher than 130 mg/dl is taken as high blood sugar. Some symptoms include: thirstiness, headaches, frequent urination, problems in paying attention, blurred vision, weakness and yeast infections.
Blood sugar levels below 70 mg/dl or less is considered to be low blood sugar or hypoglycemia. Symptoms include: increased appetite, sweating, headaches, weakness, dizziness, anxiousness, confusion, fast heartbeat and paleness.
The following recommendations from CDC can help women preparing to have children or already pregnant to avoid the disease and have a healthy pregnancy:
* Plan before getting pregnant- Consult a doctor before planning pregnancy and follow the diabetes medication prescribed by him/her to avoid risks of birth defects
* Follow a healthy lifestyle and food habits- Design a diabetes meal plan with the help of a dietician or diabetes educator. Consume food that helps to maintain blood sugar levels. Spare a few minutes daily for exercise, like walking briskly for 15 minutes twice a day
* Do not skip medicines or insulin
* Monitor blood sugar levels and try to control it through food and physical activities
* Do not take low blood sugar levels lightly, control the condition with hard candy or glucose tablets
* Carry a medical alert diabetes bracelet
