At Episcopal Health Services’ Labor and Delivery Suite, our physicians and maternal health specialists have extensive experience diagnosing and managing pregnancy-related conditions, including gestational diabetes.
The incidence of gestational diabetes has steadily increased over the past decade, now affecting nearly 15 percent of pregnant women in the United States. Factors such as advancing maternal age—particularly among women over 40—along with excess weight and sedentary lifestyles, have contributed to this rise. Gestational diabetes also has implications beyond pregnancy, as women who develop the condition face up to a 50 percent risk of developing type 2 diabetes within 10 years after delivery.
What Is Gestational Diabetes?
Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that develops during pregnancy, most often during the second or third trimester. It occurs due to hormonal changes that affect the body’s ability to use insulin effectively. Insulin is responsible for converting glucose (blood sugar) into energy. During pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations may reduce insulin effectiveness, leading to elevated blood glucose levels.
In most cases, gestational diabetes does not persist after delivery; however, careful monitoring and management during pregnancy are essential for you and your baby’s health.
Am I at Risk for Gestational Diabetes?
Gestational diabetes affects approximately eight percent of pregnancies, with prevalence increasing with maternal age. Rates among women aged 40 and older are six times higher than among women aged 20 and younger.
Additional risk factors include:
- A diagnosis of prediabetes
- A personal history of gestational diabetes or a family history of diabetes
- Hypertension
- Cardiovascular disease
- Physical inactivity
- Overweight or obesity
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Advanced maternal age
What Are the Signs of Gestational Diabetes?
Gestational diabetes often presents without noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Persistent nausea
- Ongoing fatigue
Because symptoms are frequently absent or subtle, routine prenatal visits are critical for monitoring blood glucose levels and assessing your baby’s health. If you experience any concerning symptoms, contact Episcopal Health Services immediately.
How Does Gestational Diabetes Affect Me or My Baby?
If not adequately managed, gestational diabetes may result in serious health complications.
For the mother, risks include:
- Preeclampsia
- Increased likelihood of cesarean delivery
- Stillbirth
- Development of type 2 diabetes later in life
For the baby, risks include:
- High birth weight, which may increase the need for cesarean delivery
- Preterm birth
- Respiratory distress syndrome
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which may lead to seizures
- Increased risk of obesity and diabetes later in life
Early detection and timely care significantly improve outcomes for both mother and baby.
How Is Gestational Diabetes Treated?
Treatment is tailored to each individual, with a focus on maintaining blood glucose levels within a healthy range. Your EHS healthcare provider may recommend a combination of:
- Regular physical activity
- Nutritional counseling and dietary modifications
- Routine blood glucose monitoring
- Insulin therapy, when necessary
More frequent prenatal visits may be required to closely monitor your health and your baby’s development. Home blood glucose monitoring, along with meal tracking, can help your provider make appropriate adjustments to your care plan.
Can I Reduce My Risk of Gestational Diabetes?
In some cases, the risk of gestational diabetes can be reduced through healthy lifestyle choices. Your healthcare provider can provide guidance on appropriate nutrition and physical activity that support a healthy pregnancy.
Why Choose Episcopal Health Services for Gestational Diabetes Care?
Episcopal Health Services is dedicated to comprehensive, coordinated care for expectant mothers and their babies. Our Baby-Friendly designation reflects a commitment to high-quality, evidence-based care. All members of the Labor and Delivery team are board-certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and EHS is affiliated with Long Island Jewish Medical Center to ensure access to advanced maternal and neonatal services.
For more information about Obstetrics and Gynecology services at Episcopal Health Services, please call 718-869-7382.
To schedule an appointment, call 718-869-7690, or click here to find an Obstetrician or Gynecologist at Episcopal Health Services.