Key points:
- Gestational diabetes is detected between weeks 24 and 28 of pregnancy.
- The study called “glucose tolerance test” helps identify if you have gestational diabetes.
- Although gestational diabetes does not affect breastfeeding, the effects of medications should be discussed with your doctor.
Diabetes in pregnancy, or gestational diabetes, is usually diagnosed between weeks 24 and 28 of pregnancy, says Dr. Aili García Tuomola, an endocrinologist at ABC Medical Center.
To determine whether or not this condition exists, your gynecologist will request a test called “glucose tolerance test”. This test consists of taking a very sweet liquid full of glucose, to identify the measurements in the body during time zero and at two hours. Once the lab reports the glucose levels, it can be determined whether or not there is gestational diabetes.
How to take control of gestational diabetes?
In most cases, pregnant women will be able to control this type of diabetes by just following a meal plan. Although in some cases, it will be necessary to take medication or use insulin if recommended by the doctor.
It will also be very important that you take glucose measurements at home to be shared with your doctor later and find out if you are meeting your treatment goals.
Gestational diabetes and breastfeeding
Dr. García says that, generally, diabetes does not prevent successful breastfeeding. Despite this, it will be necessary to discuss it with your doctor so they can analyze the medications you are taking and find out whether or not they are safe for breastfeeding.
If it is a no, there is the possibility of changing the medication for safe breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding is a process that greatly benefits the mother and the baby, helping to reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, reducing some infections, and also helping to reduce obesity and diabetes in adulthood.
Although diabetes in pregnancy can have risks, with proper control you can have a successful and safe pregnancy for both you and your baby.
At ABC Medical Center’s Diabetes Clinic, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
Fuente:
Dr. Aili García Tuomola – endocrinologist at ABC Medical Center
https://youtu.be/IRI-I9R52sw
