### Gestational Diabetes and Pregnancy Gestational diabetes (GDM) is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy and usually goes away after the baby is born. It affects about 2-10% of pregnancies in the United States. GDM occurs when pregnancy hormones make your body resistant to insulin, leading to higher blood sugar levels. #### Risks of Uncontrolled GDM Uncontrolled GDM can pose several risks to both the mother and the baby, including an increased risk of stillbirth, pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy), excessive amniotic fluid, and abnormal fetal growth patterns. These complications can lead to fetal distress and stillbirth. #### Importance of Early Diagnosis and Management Early diagnosis and effective management of GDM can significantly reduce these risks. Doctors usually recommend screening for GDM between 24-28 weeks of pregnancy. If diagnosed, managing blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, and sometimes medication can help ensure a healthy pregnancy. #### Managing GDM - **Diet and Exercise:** About 70% of GDM cases can be managed with dietary changes and regular exercise. - **Medications:** If diet and exercise are not enough, doctors may prescribe oral medications or insulin to help control blood sugar levels. - **Monitoring:** Extra ultrasounds or fetal monitoring may be recommended to keep an eye on the baby's growth and health. #### Post-Delivery GDM usually resolves after delivery, but it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. Doctors often recommend rescreening for type 2 diabetes 4-12 weeks after delivery and then every 1-3 years. #### Conclusion While GDM can increase the risk of complications, effective management can reduce these risks to near-normal levels. If you are pregnant, talk to your doctor about universal diabetes screening to ensure timely diagnosis and management of GDM.