Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. Many women hear different stories about it, but not all are true. Because myths about gestational diabetes are common, it is important to know the facts. Understanding the truth helps you make better choices for your health and your baby. In this blog, we will explore the myths and facts about gestational diabetes, its causes, and how to manage it.
What is Gestational Diabetes?
Gestational diabetes happens when your body cannot use sugar properly during pregnancy. As a result, blood sugar levels become higher than normal. Usually, this condition appears in the second or third trimester. However, it often goes away after the baby is born. Even so, it needs careful management to keep both mother and baby healthy. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), gestational diabetes affects about 2% to 10% of pregnancies in the United States.
Common Myths About Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes only happens to women who eat too much sugar.
If you have gestational diabetes, your baby will always be born with diabetes.
Gestational diabetes is rare and not serious.
Only overweight women get gestational diabetes.
Gestational diabetes means you will always have diabetes after pregnancy.
The Facts: Evidence-Based Insights
Myth: Gestational diabetes only happens to women who eat too much sugar.
Fact: Eating sugar does not cause gestational diabetes. Instead, hormones from the placenta can affect how your body uses insulin. This can lead to high blood sugar. (CDC)
Myth: If you have gestational diabetes, your baby will always be born with diabetes.
Fact: Most babies are born healthy if gestational diabetes is managed well. Babies are not born with diabetes, but they may have a higher risk later in life. (American Diabetes Association)
Myth: Gestational diabetes is rare and not serious.
Fact: Gestational diabetes is common and can be serious if not treated. It can cause problems for both mother and baby, such as high birth weight or early delivery. (WHO)
Myth: Only overweight women get gestational diabetes.
Fact: While being overweight is a risk factor, women of any size can develop gestational diabetes. Family history and age also play a role. (CDC)
Myth: Gestational diabetes means you will always have diabetes after pregnancy.
Fact: Gestational diabetes usually goes away after birth. However, it does increase your risk of type 2 diabetes later. (CDC)
Causes and Risk Factors
During pregnancy, your body makes more hormones. Sometimes, these hormones block insulin, which helps control blood sugar. As a result, blood sugar rises. Several factors can increase your risk, including:
Being overweight before pregnancy
Having a family history of diabetes
Being over 25 years old
Having had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy
Belonging to certain ethnic groups (such as African American, Hispanic, Native American, or Asian American)
Diagnosis and Management
Doctors usually test for gestational diabetes between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. The test checks how your body handles sugar. If you are diagnosed, your doctor will help you manage it. Management may include:
Eating a balanced diet with healthy foods
Staying active with regular exercise
Checking your blood sugar levels often
Taking medicine or insulin if needed
With proper care, most women have healthy pregnancies and babies.
Prevention and Healthy Lifestyle Tips
Although you cannot always prevent gestational diabetes, healthy habits can lower your risk. For example, you can:
Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Limit foods high in sugar and fat
Stay active with walking or gentle exercise
Maintain a healthy weight before and during pregnancy
Visit your doctor for regular check-ups
Even small changes can make a big difference for you and your baby.
Conclusion
Gestational diabetes is common, but many myths make it confusing. Now you know the facts and how to manage your health. If you have questions or concerns, consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice on gestational diabetes.
