Gestational diabetes is common to many pregnant women. It first develops during pregnancy, but soon goes away after delivery. Just like other types of diabetes, gestational diabetes causes high blood sugar. It affects how your cells use glucose. This can affect your pregnancy and also the health of your baby. Therefore, proper care should be taken. Gestational diabetes goes away after delivery. However, if it doesn't, then it is called type 2 diabetes and that could be a serious problem. In this case, you will need a care plan for diabetes.

What causes gestational diabetes?

Gestational diabetes is a condition common to pregnant women. This happens when a pregnant woman can't make enough insulin during late pregnancy. This leads to the development of gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes is also linked to obesity. Women who are obese may already have insulin resistance. When they get pregnant it could lead to gestational diabetes.

Why post-pregnancy care is important for women?

After delivery, women are weak. They need to regain their strength and get back to health to take care of their new baby. Women in the postnatal period are required to follow a balanced diet. They should take folic acid and iron supplementation for at least 3 months after delivery. Post-pregnancy care helps women to become healthy and adjust to their new life. This is especially important for women who are still dealing with gestational diabetes. In case, it doesn't go away soon after delivery, it could be type 2 diabetes, which is a matter of concern. This is why you need to take care of yourself after delivery.

How to treat gestational diabetes?

Gestational diabetes can be treated with proper diet and exercise. Women having this condition during pregnancy should get a special diet chart from their doctors and also keep a strict check on the foods they are eating. Along with that, you should also perform some light exercise. Make sure that you don't do any heavy exercise like weight lifting as it can harm the baby. In some cases, your doctor can also recommend you to take oral medication such as metformin. You may also need to get insulin shots to maintain your blood sugar levels.

What should you eat if you have gestational diabetes?

Women with gestational diabetes must follow a strict diet. They should eat plenty of whole fruits and vegetables to keep themselves healthy. Along with that, they should consume just moderate amounts of healthy fats and lean proteins. But most importantly, you should avoid too much sugary food. If you get an excessive craving for sweets, just have a little. However, you should once consult with your doctor.

How does gestational diabetes affect the baby?

Mothers with gestational diabetes have a higher risk of developing obesity and type 2 diabetes later in life. When not treated properly, it can even result in a baby's death either before or after birth. Diabetes and pregnancy go hand in hand. This is especially true for women who are overweight. For obese women, there are higher chances of her developing gestational diabetes during pregnancy.