Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Latest News

A study conducted at seven antenatal clinics with over 3,000 women, found that early gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) affects about one in five pregnant women.

About Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

• Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is glucose intolerance first diagnosed during pregnancy, and is typically diagnosed between 24-28 weeks gestation.
• Causes 

• • It happens when the hormones from the placenta block your ability to use or make insulin.
  • The placenta supplies a growing fetus with nutrients and water, and also produces a variety of hormones to maintain the pregnancy
  • This is called contra-insulin effect, which usually begins about 20 to 24 weeks into the pregnancy.
• Symptoms: Most of the time, gestational diabetes doesn’t cause symptoms but it includes excessive thirst, urinating more often, fatigue, nausea.
• Risk factors can increase the chances of developing GDM. These include:
  • Living with overweight or obesity
  • Being over the age of 45
  • Having a family history of diabetes or gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy
  • Having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Treatment: Gestational diabetes can be managed with a combination of lifestyle changes and medication.

Source: TH

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