Diabetes is a condition in which the body is not able to produce or use insulin, which triggers a significant increase in blood sugar levels. In turn, it can damage the eyes, nerves, kidneys, and the heart. This increase in blood sugar becomes even more crucial during pregnancy as it can affect both the developing baby and the mother. WHO reports that Diabetes affects around 1 in 6 pregnancies, which is 21 million women, annually, around the world. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Increased levels of blood sugar in pregnancy can heighten the risk of serious issues like large babies, birth injuries, and stillbirth if not managed effectively. Fortunately, there are several medically approved methods, such as a healthy diet and regular monitoring, that can help women control their blood sugar levels. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In this article, we will be discussing Diabetes in pregnancy, its causes, and who is at a higher risk of developing it. Furthermore, you\u2019ll learn natural management strategies, including a healthy diet plan, and the appropriate timing for consulting a doctor for this condition. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some women already have Diabetes<\/a> before they become pregnant. It could be Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes. But others can develop it during pregnancy, known as Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM). It generally develops during the 24-28th week of pregnancy (2nd trimester) when your body can\u2019t produce the extra insulin required for a healthy pregnancy. This triggers a sharp spike in blood sugar levels, called Hyperglycemia. <\/p>\n\n\n\n For most women, blood sugar levels return to normal after childbirth. However, this health condition increases the risk of getting Type 2 Diabetes later in life, in general, particularly when poorly managed. Furthermore, there are usually no or mild symptoms of GD in pregnancy. If you do observe symptoms<\/a>, they can include one or more of the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n