Factors that Increase the Risk of Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is a medical condition that affects pregnant women. It occurs when a pregnant woman's body cannot produce enough insulin or effectively use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body use sugar for energy.
There is no guaranteed way to prevent gestational diabetes, but there are several factors that can increase the risk of developing it, including:
- Age: The risk of gestational diabetes increases with age.
- Excess Weight or Obesity: Women who are overweight or obese are more prone to developing gestational diabetes.
- Family History: Women with a family history of diabetes are more likely to develop gestational diabetes.
- History of Previous Gestational Diabetes: Women who have had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy are more likely to develop it again in subsequent pregnancies.
- Multiple Pregnancy: Women pregnant with more than one baby are at a higher risk of gestational diabetes.
- Certain Medical Conditions: Some medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), increase the risk of gestational diabetes.
- Certain Medications: Some medications, such as steroids, increase the risk of gestational diabetes.
If you are at risk of developing gestational diabetes, talk to your doctor. Your doctor can help you manage the risk and take steps to reduce it.
Here are some tips that can help reduce the risk of developing gestational diabetes:
- Maintain a Healthy Weight Before Pregnancy: Maintaining a healthy weight before pregnancy can reduce the risk of gestational diabetes.
- Regularly Engage in Exercise: Regular exercise can help reduce the risk of gestational diabetes.
- Follow a Healthy Diet: Following a healthy diet can help reduce the risk of gestational diabetes.
If you are pregnant, talk to your doctor about the risk of gestational diabetes. Your doctor can help you undergo the necessary tests to detect gestational diabetes.