What is gestational diabetes?
During pregnancy, hormones from the placenta make the body less sensitive to insulin. Most women make extra insulin to compensate. When the body cannot keep up, blood sugar rises, and this is called gestational diabetes. It is one of the most common medical conditions in pregnancy.
Who is more likely to develop it?
- Being overweight
- A family history of diabetes
- Gestational diabetes or a large baby in a previous pregnancy
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Being an older mother
- An Asian ethnic background
How is it tested?
The usual test is an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), typically between 24 and 28 weeks. You fast overnight, have a blood test, drink a sugary drink, then have further blood tests over the next two hours. Women at higher risk may be tested earlier. In Singapore, all pregnant women are advised to have a 75 g OGTT at 24 to 28 weeks.
Why does it matter?
Untreated high blood sugar can make the baby grow larger than usual, which can make delivery more difficult. It can also raise the risk of high blood pressure in pregnancy, and the baby may have low blood sugar after birth. Women who have had gestational diabetes are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes later in life.
How is gestational diabetes managed?
- Diet: regular, balanced meals with controlled portions of starchy foods, often with advice from a dietitian.
- Activity: gentle exercise such as walking after meals helps lower blood sugar.
- Blood sugar checks: using a small meter at home, several times a day.
- Medication: tablets or insulin if diet and activity are not enough.
- Extra monitoring: growth scans to check on your baby, and a plan for the timing of birth.
What happens after the birth?
Blood sugar usually returns to normal soon after delivery. A 75 g OGTT is recommended 6 to 12 weeks after birth, then a blood sugar check every 1 to 3 years. Breastfeeding, a healthy weight and staying active all help lower the risk of type 2 diabetes later.
This article is general information and does not replace a consultation with a doctor. If you are worried about your health, please book a visit or, in an emergency, call +65 6535 8833.
