How to Cope With Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a special case of diabetes that affects pregnant women. It occurs in one of every 25 pregnancies and is characterized by the pregnant woman's body being incapable of producing enough of the chemical insulin to offset the levels of glucose (sugar) in her bloodstream. It is notable because it arises in women who have had no prior history of diabetes. Gestational diabetes typically presents during the second trimester of pregnancy.

Because it is the result of an ongoing biological process (i.e., the growth of a new human being within the mother), gestational diabetes can be difficult to treat. Indeed, in many cases, it cannot be cured, but only managed. Nevertheless, understanding how to cope with gestational diabetes can help an expectant mother get through the pregnancy with minimal impact on her health.

• Make a Plan

  Work with your doctor to identify your health risks and to devise a comprehensive plan to deal with them. Such a plan might include dietary changes, exercise recommendations, and even medications like supplemental insulin. The key is to stay in control of your blood sugar levels. Making a plan and sticking to it is the best way to ensure you and your baby maintain a healthy lifestyle.

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• Assess Your Eating Habits

  Diet plays a huge role in managing diabetes of any kind. Many expectant mothers have trouble enough finding satisfying, nutritious meals even without having to deal with diabetes concerns. Between cravings, the increased caloric needs of mother and baby, and meeting the nutritional needs of the rest of the family, it can be hard to find meals that work. A professional dietician or nutritionist is trained to help with just these concerns. He or she can work with you or your doctor to tailor a meal plan to your needs, and can take a lot of stress off of you.

• Consult Your Doctor Regularly

  Your doctor is there to answer your questions and help you feel comfortable with the state of your pregnancy. Take your concerns to him or her and ask what you can do to stay healthy and positive. If your diet or treatment plan doesn't seem to be working, or if it has unexpected side effects (rapid weight loss, depression, etc.), your doctor will be able to make adjustments.

• Find a Support Group

  Because it is a relatively common condition, there are usually plenty of support options available for mothers with gestational diabetes. Your doctor may be able to help you find one, and if your nutritionist often deals with expectant mothers, he or she may also be able to point you in the right direction. Make sure you try a variety of groups so you find one that works well for you. There are also a number of virtual support groups on the Internet that may be helpful, though many mothers prefer the face-to-face support of a local group also.

• Stay Positive

  The outcome from gestational diabetes is typically very good. There are many concerns that may arise and need to be dealt with, but with proper advice and a positive, proactive attitude, there is no reason you and your baby shouldn't be just fine.

Conclusion

Diabetes of any kind can have profound effects on your health and lifestyle, and gestational diabetes is no different. But if you know how to cope with gestational diabetes, you'll be better prepared to ask the right questions and deal with it in a positive, effective manner.