Gestational diabetes is a growing concern. This type of diabetes occurs during pregnancy and can affect both the mother and baby. In India, cases are increasing, making awareness and prevention important.
Recent numbers show that gestational diabetes rates range from 3% to 21%. Doctors link this rise to lifestyle changes, older pregnancy ages, and obesity. Dr. Ramya K S, an obstetrician at Rainbow Children’s Hospital, emphasizes that many women are overweight or have conditions like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), which adds to the risk.
“A family history of diabetes also increases the risk,” she warns. Dr. Shruthi Kalagara of Motherhood Hospitals agrees, highlighting that poor diet and low activity levels worsen the situation. “Indian women are more prone to insulin resistance, making the issue even more significant,” she notes. This resistance means the body struggles to use insulin effectively, which is crucial for controlling blood sugar.
Urbanization and stress from daily life have further complicated these health issues. According to recent studies, around 13% of pregnant women in India are affected by gestational diabetes, with numbers expected to rise as lifestyles change.
So, when should women get screened? Doctors recommend that all expectant mothers be tested. High-risk women, like those with a family history or those who are overweight, should be screened as early as their first doctor visit. For those at lower risk, testing is typically done around 24 weeks of pregnancy.
Screening often involves a glucose tolerance test. Dr. Shruthi advises all women to be screened between 24 and 28 weeks but stresses early detection for those with risk factors. This proactive approach can catch potential problems early.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle before and during pregnancy can significantly lower the risk of gestational diabetes. Eating a balanced diet focusing on whole grains, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats is essential. Avoiding refined sugars and processed foods can also make a difference. Regular exercise, even something as simple as a daily 30-minute walk, can help keep weight in check.
Moreover, managing stress and getting enough sleep are vital. Dr. Shruthi highlights that simple lifestyle changes can lead to better outcomes. “Moderate exercise, like prenatal yoga, can improve insulin sensitivity,” she says.
Why is controlling blood sugar crucial? Uncontrolled gestational diabetes can lead to complications for both mother and baby. Mothers may face issues like hypertension or a higher chance of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. In fact, nearly 50% of women with gestational diabetes will be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in the next decade.
Babies can be affected as well. High blood sugar levels can cause excessive growth, increasing the risk of delivery complications. Babies might also experience low blood sugar after birth and face a higher chance of obesity or diabetes in the future. For mothers, having gestational diabetes is a warning sign; they may be up to seven times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes within ten years.
While gestational diabetes is common, with awareness and the right strategies, many risks can be reduced. A balanced diet, regular exercise, effective stress management, and timely screenings are essential for protecting both mothers and their babies. By taking these steps, women can give themselves and their children a healthier future.
Source link
gestational diabetes, India, pregnancy health, obesity, lifestyle diseases, PCOS, screening guidelines, diabetes prevention, maternal health, insulin resistance
