Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy. It is diagnosed when higher than normal blood glucose levels first appear during pregnancy. Most women will no longer have diabetes after the baby is born. However, some women will continue to have high blood glucose levels after delivery.
Overview
What is Gestational Diabetes?
Symptoms
What are the signs of Gestational Diabetes?
For most women, gestational diabetes doesn't cause noticeable signs or symptoms. Increased thirst and increased frequent urination are possible symptoms.
Causes
What are the causes of Gestational Diabetes?
During pregnancy, hormone levels change, making it harder for your body to process blood sugar efficiently. This may cause your blood glucose levels to rise. Some other risk factors associated with gestational diabetes include:
Overweight/obesity
Age older than 40 years
Low levels of physical activity
Previous gestational diabetes or prediabetes
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Family history
Delivering a previous child of large birth weight
Ethnicity - Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, Pacific Islander, Indian or Chinese, African American, Hispanic American, and Native American descent
Diagnosis
How do I know if I have Gestational Diabetes?
To diagnose gestational diabetes, your doctor is likely to ask you about your medical and family history, perform a physical assessment and/or request the following tests:
Fasting insulin
Insulin Resistance Index
Glycoslyated Haemoglobin (HbA1c)