La Diabetes Gestacional es un tipo de diabetes que aparece por primera vez durante el embarazo en mujeres que nunca la habían tenido, y que puede repetirse en embarazos posteriores. Para detectarla, su médico puede ordenar la prueba de tolerancia a la glucosa entre las semanas 24 y 28 de embarazo.

Causas
Factores que aumentan el riesgo de desarrollar diabetes gestacional:

• Cambios hormonales durante el embarazo
• Obesidad o sobrepeso
• Excessive weight gain during pregnancy
• Family history of diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Polycystic ovary syndrome

Symptoms
Signs that may indicate gestational diabetes:

• Excessive thirst
• Frequent urination
• Recurrent infections
• Blurred vision
• Unexpected weight gain

Risks for the baby
If not controlled, gestational diabetes can affect the baby:

• Premature birth
• Baby too large (9 pounds or more), complicating delivery
• Rapid changes in blood sugar levels after birth
• Breathing problems
• Increased risk of obesity or diabetes in childhood and adolescence

Risks for the mother

• Complications during delivery
• Higher likelihood of cesarean section
• Preeclampsia
• Increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes after pregnancy
  
  

What to do if you have gestational diabetes

1. Attend all your medical appointments.
2. Monitor your blood sugar as directed by your doctor.
   • The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends keeping blood sugar below certain levels.
     • Fasting: 95 mg/dL
     • 1 hour after eating: 140 mg/dL
     • 2 hours after eating: 120 mg/dL
   • Your doctor may adjust these values based on your case
3. Eat healthy.
   • Learn which foods help control glucose.
   • Consult a nutritionist or diabetes educator.
4. Exercise regularly.
   • At least 30 minutes, 5 days a week (with prior medical authorization).
5. Take your medications as directed.
   • Insulin may be necessary in some cases.

Following these measures helps maintain a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.

After delivery

• Gestational diabetes usually disappears after birth.
• Attend your postpartum appointment between the first and third week after delivery or cesarean section.
• Get the diabetes test after delivery and at 6 weeks.
• Maintain healthy habits to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes in the future.

References:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
• American Diabetes Association (ADA).
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).