Pharmacy Clinical Pearl of the Day: Gestational Diabetes

Clinical Pearl of the Day: Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is diabetes diagnosed for the first-time during pregnancy (gestation).

Insight:

• Similar to other types of diabetes, gestational diabetes affects how the cells use sugar.
• Gestational diabetes causes high blood sugar that can affect the pregnancy and the baby's health.
• Expectant mothers can help control gestational diabetes by eating healthy foods, exercising, and, if necessary, taking medication.
• Controlling blood sugar can keep the mother and baby healthy and prevent a difficult delivery.
• In women with gestational diabetes, blood sugar usually returns to normal soon after delivery.
• But if the patient has had gestational diabetes, there is a higher risk of getting type 2 diabetes.
• Risk factors include being overweight, lack of physical activity, and diabetes history in the family.
• Diagnosis includes blood sugar tests with the provider or specialist.
• Preventive and treatment tools may include exercise, eating healthy foods, keeping active, and some medications to control the blood sugars

Sources:

• Gestational diabetes - Diagnosis and treatment - Mayo Clinic
• gestational diabetes - Google Search