Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that happens only during pregnancy. It develops when the body cannot make enough insulin to manage the extra changes that come with pregnancy. This causes blood sugar levels to rise.
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Gestational diabetes usually goes away after birth, but it can affect both mother and baby during pregnancy. It can lead to complications such as high birth weight, early delivery, and a higher chance of developing type 2 diabetes later in life for both mom and child.
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The good news is that with the right care, including healthy eating, physical activity, regular checkups, and sometimes medication, most women with gestational diabetes go on to have safe, healthy pregnancies.
Common Symptoms
01.
Frequent Urination
02.
Increased Thirst
03.
Fatigue
04.
Increased Hunger
05.
Recurring Infections
06.
Blurred Vision
07.
Sugar in Urine (Glycosuria)
08.
Dry Mouth
Risk Factors
According to ACOG (2020) and USPSTF (2014)
Age
(35 or older)
Why it matters: As women get older, the body becomes less efficient at using insulin, raising the chance of gestational diabetes.
What you can do: Talk with your provider early about screening, and focus on healthy habits before and during pregnancy.
Obesity
(BMI over 30)
Why it matters: Extra weight makes it harder for the body to use insulin properly, which can raise blood sugar levels.
What you can do: Even small changes in eating or activity can make a big difference. A CHW or dietitian can help with realistic plans.
Family History of Diabetes
Why it matters: If your parent, brother, or sister has type 2 diabetes, your risk is higher.
What you can do: Make sure your provider knows your family history so you can be tested early.
Personal History of Gestational Diabetes
Why it matters: Women who had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy are more likely to have it again.
What you can do: Ask your provider about early testing and monitoring, even before 24 weeks.
Other Risk Factors
Having a baby weighing more than 9 pounds in a previous pregnancy
High blood pressure or other metabolic conditions
Being inactive before or during pregnancy
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Why it matters: PCOS can cause insulin resistance, making blood sugar harder to control during pregnancy.
What you can do: Share your PCOS history with your provider, and ask about early testing.
Race & Ethnicity
Why it matters: Black, Hispanic, American Indian, and Asian women are more likely to develop gestational diabetes, due to social and structural factors like access to healthy food and healthcare.
What you can do: Knowing your risk means you and your provider can plan earlier screening and extra support if needed.
Common Challenges During & After Pregnancy
Medication or Insulin Use:
Some women need insulin or other medications, which can feel intimidating at first. Understanding how to use them safely requires consistent education and support.
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As one focus group participant shared: “I knew I was supposed to get checked again after my baby was born, but I couldn’t find a ride and my coverage had already ended.”
Sleep & Rest:
Pregnancy already affects sleep, and fatigue can make it more difficult to stay on top of meal planning and glucose checks.
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While not always labeled “sleep,” fatigue and overall postpartum strain were repeatedly mentioned as barriers to self-care in focus groups.
Postpartum Follow-Up Testing:
After birth, mothers should be screened for type 2 diabetes. But in the Panhandle, transportation and Medicaid delays sometimes prevent timely follow-up appointments.
Changing Diet and Nutrition:
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Adjusting to new meal plans and finding healthy, affordable foods isn’t always easy. Food insecurity in some rural areas makes it even harder to follow nutrition guidance.
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Many women in focus groups reported that nutrition and glucose monitoring are harder when healthy foods or supplies aren’t affordable or available.
Blood Sugar Monitoring:
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Checking glucose levels regularly is key — but many women reported that supplies like test strips can be costly or difficult to access.
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Families in our focus groups reported difficulty accessing or affording glucose testing supplies, making consistent monitoring a challenge.
Support & Resources
Community Health Workers (CHWs):
CHWs provide one-on-one support, including glucose monitoring follow-ups, nutrition counseling, and warm handoffs to clinic providers. They can also guide families through Medicaid/CHIP applications to make sure postpartum care is covered.
Postpartum Glucose Testing:
After birth, it’s important to get screened for type 2 diabetes. CHWs and providers can help schedule follow-up testing and connect you to prevention programs.
If you’ve been diagnosed with gestational diabetes, talk with your provider about these key questions:
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How often should I be checking my blood sugar?
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What changes to my diet or routine will help most?
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What steps should I take after my baby is born to protect my long-term health?
Nutrition & Food Access:
CHWs and local programs help families plan affordable meals, even when fresh produce is hard to find. Ask about nutrition classes, food pantry partnerships, or meal planning guides.
Local & Online Resources:
Each Panhandle county offers different supports — from diabetes education classes to nutrition counseling and support groups. For women in rural areas, telehealth and online classes are available.
Resources
The information provided on this site is intended as a resource hub to help mothers access and review important maternal health information. This is not intended to provide medical advice. Before making any health decisions, always consult with your healthcare provider to ensure it is appropriate for your individual needs.