Diabetes and Endocrine Disorders

Diabetes in Pregnancy (Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM))

Diabetes can have significant effects on pregnancy, both for the mother and the developing baby. Two types of diabetes can affect pregnancy: pre-existing diabetes and gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. It is characterized by high blood sugar levels that occur for the first time during pregnancy and usually resolves after giving birth. GDM can develop in women who have never had diabetes before, and it is believed to be related to the hormonal changes and increased insulin resistance that occur during pregnancy.

Women with diabetes can have healthy pregnancies and deliver healthy babies. It is important for women with diabetes who are planning to become pregnant to work closely with their healthcare team to optimize their diabetes management before and during pregnancy and need to test for changes in blood sugar levels more frequently to manage Gestational diabetes and preventing complications such as macrosomia and neonatal hypoglycemia.

• A lack of physical activity
• If a woman's close family members have diabetes
• Previously delivering a baby weighing more than 9 pounds
• Overweight or Obesity