Gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a condition characterized by high blood sugar levels that is first recognized during pregnancy. The condition occurs in approximately 4% of all pregnancies.

Pronunciation

Gestational diabetes is pronounced as jes-tay-shuh-nl dahy-uh-bee-tees.

Etymology

The term "gestational" is derived from the Latin word "gestare" which means "to carry or to bear". The term "diabetes" is derived from the Greek word "diabainein" which means "to pass through," referring to the excessive amount of urine produced by individuals with the condition.

Definition

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that occurs in women during pregnancy. It is caused by the body's inability to make or use insulin effectively, leading to high blood sugar levels. These elevated levels can adversely affect the pregnancy and health of the baby. It can also increase the mother's risk of type 2 diabetes later in life.

Symptoms

Most women with gestational diabetes do not experience any symptoms. However, some may experience excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, nausea, and blurred vision.

Diagnosis

Gestational diabetes is usually diagnosed through prenatal screening, rather than reported symptoms. This involves a glucose tolerance test, typically performed between the 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy.

Treatment

Treatment for gestational diabetes aims to keep blood glucose levels equal to those of pregnant women who don't have gestational diabetes. This can usually be accomplished by a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and regular blood glucose testing. In some cases, insulin injections may be necessary.

Related Terms

• Insulin
• Glucose
• Pregnancy
• Diabetes
• Glucose tolerance test

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Gestational diabetes
• Wikipedia's article - Gestational diabetes

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