What precautions can be taken to avoid gestational diabetes?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am feeling anxious about my pregnancy and the possibility of gestational diabetes. I am currently in my 27th week. Lately, I have been experiencing some concerning symptoms like excessive thirst, frequent urination, and unexplained fatigue. I know that gestational diabetes can have serious implications for both me and my baby, and I am terrified of what it could mean for our health.

I am 30 years old. Can you please help me understand the risk factors for gestational diabetes and what steps I can take to mitigate them? What tests should I take now? Can this be treated soon?

Kindly suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

I am glad you chose icliniq.com for your medical-related queries.

I can understand your situation and your problem.

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has quite a number of risk factors, such as obesity, a history of GDM in a previous pregnancy, maternal age of 35 years and above, among others. The symptoms you listed are not specific to GDM. Therefore, to determine if you have GDM, you should undergo a glucose challenge test. This test will help confirm whether you have GDM or not. It is best performed between 24 to 28 weeks of pregnancy, as this is when insulin resistance, which can cause GDM, is highest. So, you should undergo the test.

Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further.

Thank you.