What triggers gestational diabetes?
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Great question! During pregnancy, the placenta produces hormones that can interfere with insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. In some women, this interference can lead to insulin resistance, causing blood sugar levels to rise and resulting in gestational diabetes. It's important to note that not all women develop gestational diabetes, but those who are at a higher risk should be monitored closely.
That's true. In addition to hormonal changes, there are other risk factors for gestational diabetes, such as being overweight or obese, having a family history of diabetes, and having had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy. However, even if you have these risk factors, it doesn't necessarily mean you'll develop gestational diabetes. It's all about managing those risk factors and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
It's important to catch gestational diabetes early because it can increase the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby. But the good news is that with proper management, women with gestational diabetes can have healthy pregnancies and deliver healthy babies. This often involves monitoring blood sugar levels, making dietary changes, and getting regular exercise. In some cases, medication may also be necessary.
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