Pregnancy is a life-changing phase in a woman’s life. it can also be an overwhelming time marked by physical and hormonal changes, frequent visits to the doctor, and crucial medical decision-making. There are many critical parameters that need to be monitored closely during pregnancy— one of these is glucose tolerance, to check for Gestational Diabetes, a condition that occurs when the expecting mother’s body cannot produce enough insulin.
During pregnancy, the body makes more hormones and typically goes through other changes, such as weight gain. This can cause cells to use insulin less effectively, leading to a condition known as insulin resistance that increases the body’s need for insulin and can eventually cause gestational diabetes. Studies show that the incidence of gestational diabetes has increased by almost 56% globally in the last two decades. Mothers with gestational diabetes are at an increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life, face complications during birth or have a baby with developmental deficits. It is, thus, important to keep a close watch on blood sugar levels during pregnancy, and make lifestyle changes that can help glucose levels stay within normal range.
Early detection is key in managing any health condition. While increased thirst, tiredness, frequent urination are all common during pregnancy, they could also be symptoms of gestational diabetes. It is, therefore, vital to consult your OBGYN and test for glucose tolerance in the second trimester (between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy).
Besides, here are a few simple lifestyle changes that can help expecting mothers stabilize their glucose levels.
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