Gestational diabetes is a condition where a woman develops diabetes during pregnancy. It is one of the most common complications of pregnancy.

Gestational diabetes needs strict control during pregnancy. The mother has an increased risk of cesarean section and elevated blood pressure during pregnancy (pre-eclampsia). The mother also has a greater risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes in the future. The fetus can gain excessive weight.  After birth, the baby can develop low blood sugar, low blood calcium, jaundice, or increased red blood cell count. 

Gestational diabetes is treated with diet and exercise, insulin or Glyburide therapy. Treatment involves a strict diet and meeting with an endocrinologist specializing in gestational diabetes. The baby requires close monitoring and additional testing based on the treatment plan.

Click here to learn more about gestational diabetes from the American Diabetes Association.