Pregnancy: Understanding gestational diabetes and how you can manage it

PREGNANCY is a magical time, filled with excitement and anticipation. But it also comes with its own set of challenges, and one of these is gestational diabetes (GD).

- VUYILE MADWANTSI

If you’re pregnant or planning to have a baby, you’ve probably heard about it. While the term might sound scary, the aim is not to scare you but to educate and empower you, not to alarm you.

What is gestational diabetes?

Gestational diabetes, sometimes called maternal diabetes, is a condition where blood sugar levels become elevated during pregnancy. It typically develops in the second or third trimester and usually resolves after birth.

However, it can have short and long-term health implications for both mother and baby.

Globally, gestational diabetes affects about 17% of pregnancies, according to 2021 statistics. In South Africa, the number is rising due to increasing rates of obesity and sedentary lifestyles.

With the country already grappling with high diabetes rates, pregnant women need to be aware of the risks and how to manage them.

Unpacking the risks

Insightful preliminary research published in the journal, The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology highlights the emerging risks associated with gestational diabetes, particularly concerning developing neurodevelopmental disorders in children. A meta-analysis revealed notable statistics:

16% higher risk for learning disorders

17% higher risk for motor disorders

20% higher risk for communication disorders