Diabetes During Pregnancy: Causes, Risks & What You Should Do

• Pregnancy is a beautiful time for every woman. During this period, when a baby grows in the womb, there is a special happiness on the mother’s face. However, hormonal changes are also at their peak.
• Because of these hormonal changes, blood sugar levels sometimes rise and sometimes fall, increasing the risk of diabetes. According to an ICM report, the risk of diabetes among pregnant women in India is significantly higher.
• If you are pregnant and wondering what to do if diabetes occurs during pregnancy or if your blood sugar fluctuates, Dr. Vinod Bharti explains the correct guidance in this video: Watch the full explanation here.
• There are two types of diabetes that can occur during pregnancy:
  • Old Diabetes: Diabetes that exists before pregnancy.
  • Gestational Diabetes: Diabetes that develops during pregnancy.
• If the patient has old diabetes, their treatment continues normally. The most important point is that the HbA1c level should be below 6.5 for at least 3 months before planning pregnancy. This helps ensure normal growth and development of the baby.
• The treatment for old diabetes continues under a physician, with a switch to safer medication options suitable for pregnancy.
• Management during pregnancy mainly includes diet, exercise, and medication.
• For diet management, carbohydrate intake should be reduced but not completely eliminated, as it is essential for the baby’s growth. Protein intake should be increased, and walking for 15–20 minutes after every meal is highly beneficial. Eating every 2–3 hours helps prevent sudden sugar spikes.
• The main reason diabetes develops during pregnancy is the placental lactogen hormone, which reduces the effectiveness of insulin. This is why even women with no previous history of diabetes can develop gestational diabetes. In India, this affects nearly 10–15% of pregnancies.
• Walking for 15–20 minutes after every meal naturally helps reduce glucose levels when insulin action decreases.
• If sugar levels are not controlled through diet and exercise alone, medication is recommended under medical supervision.