Specifically, the blood sugar level increases in gestational diabetes. The estimations show that around 4 grams of glucose are present in a healthy individual weighing 70 kg. But in people with diabetes, the blood glucose is higher than the optimum level.
High sugar levels in the blood cause many problems for the mother and the baby. Hence, you are tested for diabetes during pregnancy. Blood sugar levels
Tests for gestational diabetes
A blood test is used to find gestational diabetes.
There are two types of screening tests to detect gestational diabetes. They are
- Glucose screening test
- Glucose tolerance test
Glucose screening test to Examine Blood sugar level
Your blood will be drawn to conduct a glucose test an hour after the glucose screening test.
It is usually normal if your sugar level is 140 mg/dL or lower. But if it is higher than 140 mg/dL, you will need to take a glucose tolerance test. Astrocyte
Glucose tolerance test to know the Blood sugar level
SThis test will measure the sugar levels in your blood before and after drinking a glucose liquid. The sugar levels are checked on fasting.
In order to check your sugar levels, you’ll need 1 hour of glucose testing. If the levels are significantly higher than the normal level, you may be at risk of gestational diabetes.
So if your sugar levels in pregnancy is 168 mg/dL, then there is a high probability that you have developed gestational diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes
Your doctor will likely test you for type 2 diabetes in the early stages of pregnancy if you have certain risk factors, which include –
- If you have a family history of diabetes.
- If you are overweight.
- If you have high blood pressure.
- If you have suffered from gestational diabetes or pre-diabetes in the past.
- If you have given birth to a baby who has weighed more than 9 pounds.
- If the triglyceride levels are high in your blood.
Treating High Blood sugar level in Gestational Diabetes
Healthy diet
Keeping weight in control is very important during pregnancy. You should limit the carbohydrates in your food. Instead, focus on a healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
Staying active
You have to exercise for at least 30 minutes daily. If you are not active regularly, you can start with an easy one like walking. You can also do swimming or yoga as recommended by your doctor. Moreover, exercise helps to control obesity.
Medication
As per the doctor’s suggestions, make sure to get insulin injections if you have high blood sugar levels. Around 18% of women with gestational diabetes need insulin to maintain blood sugar levels.
