Pregnant? Know Your Risk for Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a form of the disease that occurs only during pregnancy. Complications range from urinary tract infections for expectant mothers to respiratory distress syndrome—a type of lung disorder—and jaundice for newborns. Fortunately, gestational diabetes is highly treatable, but it is important for women to know the risk factors for this condition.

Rate Your Risk

Gestational diabetes can strike any pregnant woman. Some women are at a higher risk than others. Take this test to find out your risk:

1. Are you older than age 25?
2. Are you overweight?
3. Have you had gestational diabetes in the past?
4. Does anyone in your family have diabetes or has your mother had gestational diabetes?
5. Do you have high blood pressure?
6. Have you previously delivered a very large infant or a stillborn baby?
7. Are you of Hispanic, African-American, Native American, Asian, or Pacific Island descent?

If you answered “yes” to two or more of these questions, you’re at high risk for gestational diabetes. If you answered “yes” to only one of these questions, you’re at an average risk. And, if you answered “no” to all of them, your risk is considered low.

What Should You Do?

If you ranked in the high-risk group, talk with your doctor as soon as you know that you’re pregnant. Your doctor will be able to perform blood tests to find out if you have gestational diabetes. If you’re at an average risk, your doctor may want to test you between weeks 24 and 28 of your pregnancy.

If you have gestational diabetes, controlling your blood sugar levels can prevent most complications:

• Watch your weight gain. You and your doctor will set specific weight gain goals for your pregnancy.
• Choose foods high in fiber.
• Stick to a low-fat diet.
• Space your meals and snacks out evenly over the course of the day. Don’t skip meals.
• Get moderate exercise. Studies show that regular exercise during pregnancy, such as brisk walking or swimming, helps. Talk to your doctor before starting any exercise program.
• Monitor your blood sugar.
• Take your medication, if necessary.

May/June 2006 A Healthy Tomorrow

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