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The American Diabetes Association estimates that 3–8% of women develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy. This condition keeps a woman’s body from effectively using the glucose, or sugar, in their blood, causing blood sugar levels to skyrocket. Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates in Fairfield, OH, recommends scheduling regular appointments with an OB-GYN clinic to ensure the condition is detected early on. Here, they offer additional information on the illness for those who are expecting or considering becoming pregnant.

How Will Gestational Diabetes Affect Me & My Pregnancy?

ob-gynIf your doctor determines you have the condition, they may recommend a special diet and monitor your blood sugar levels regularly. In some cases, pregnant women may need to take insulin to control the disease during their pregnancy. Common dietary recommendations include a balance of fruits, vegetables, and grains, with restrictions on sugary foods like cookies and soft drinks.

Your OB-GYN clinic or women’s health center will also monitor your weight gain carefully. Moderate exercise will help keep both blood sugar levels and weight gain under control. However, you should always check with your physician before beginning an exercise program.

In most cases, gestational diabetes goes away after pregnancy, but it may take several weeks to clear. Your physician will monitor your blood sugar levels in the months following childbirth.

How Will Gestational Diabetes Affect My Baby?

Sometimes, gestational diabetes can cause your baby to be larger than average at birth because of the extra glucose in your bloodstream. If the baby is very large, a cesarean section may be required to protect both you and your child. Gestational diabetes can also cause a newborn to have low blood sugar or develop jaundice, which is marked by a yellow skin tone. While these problems are not usually serious, the baby may be given extra glucose to normalize its blood sugar levels. Jaundiced infants are placed under special lights to treat the condition.

If you have further questions about gestational diabetes, turn to OBGYN Associates of Fairfield and Liberty Township, OH. Call (513) 221-3800 to schedule an appointment with an OB-GYN at the Fairfield office, or (513) 221-3800 to set up a visit in Liberty Township. Visit OBGYN Associates online for more information about their practice and the services they provide.

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