Repurposing Episode 3—Empowering Information for Managing Gestational Diabetes-Episode 46

What's Up Wednesday!

November marks National Diabetes Awareness Month, a time to bring attention to the realities of diabetes and support those managing the condition. One form of diabetes that particularly impacts mothers-to-be is gestational diabetes, a temporary but significant diagnosis that requires careful attention to ensure both mom and baby stay healthy. 

Today on For the Love of Parenting podcast we’re marking this important time by repurposing our popular episode, Self-Love/Self-Care and Gestational Diabetes (Episode 3). In this episode, we dive into the details of gestational diabetes, addressing everything from what it is and why it occurs to how it can be managed with the right steps. This episode is an empowering guide for expectant mothers and families, covering practical strategies to monitor blood sugar levels, make dietary adjustments, and work closely with healthcare providers to navigate a healthy pregnancy.

Be sure to visit my website, www.pregnancyconcepts.com, where you can download a free Blood Glucose Log by hovering over the Podcast section for freebie access. This helpful tool is here to support you in tracking your levels and staying organized throughout your pregnancy journey! 

***PLEASE NOTE:***
While the Amazon contest and scavenger hunt featured in the original episode have ended, you can still share your journey with self-love and self-care by sending your photos to my IG account. And if you’re up for a knowledge check, listen to the first three episodes of our self-love/self-care series and see if you can answer the scavenger hunt questions below! Answers are included for you to test your knowledge:

Question #1 – From Episode #1, Nurturing Self-Love During Parenthood: What are the five aspects of self-love discussed that are especially helpful for first-time moms?
Answer: self-compassion, self-worth and confidence, self-care, personal growth, and celebrating achievements.

Question #2 – From Episode #2, Embracing Self-Care in Motherhood: Name three self-care hacks suggested for moms to incorporate into daily routines.
Answer: getting your schedule game on, embracing "good enough," and embracing help.

Question #3 – From Episode #3, Self-Love/Self-Care and Gestational Diabetes: List any three risk factors associated with developing gestational diabetes during pregnancy.
Answer: obesity, advanced maternal age, family history of diabetes.

Thank you for tuning into this repurposed episode, where we offer helpful guidance on managing gestational diabetes and practical tips for caring for yourself during pregnancy!

Contact:
For The Love of Parenting Podcast - Sponsored by Pregnancy Concepts LLC

DM us on IG @pregnacyconcepts

Email us at askus@pregnancyconcepts.com

Remember, as parents, do your best—there are no perfect parents, but countless ways to be loving and supportive. Signing off from the For Love of Parenting podcast. Thanks for listening. Until next time.

Transcript

What's Up Wednesday!

Title:  Repurposing Episode 3—Empowering Information for Managing Gestational Diabetes - Episode 46

Podcast
"Welcome to today’s episode where we dive into a crucial topic affecting many expecting mothers: gestational diabetes. We'll discuss the importance of knowing your numbers and explore how this condition can impact pregnancy and the health of both the mother and the baby. From understanding risk factors and implications to effective management strategies and the significance of prenatal care and self-care, our aim is to provide valuable insights and guidance. Join us as we navigate through this essential aspect of maternal health, empowering and informing all pre-baby and expecting mothers for a healthier pregnancy journey."

Some women probably have never heard of the term gestational diabetes until they are told they have it. Learning that you have gestational diabetes may be a shock to you and you probably have lots of questions about what this diagnosis means to you and your baby. So, let’s discuss what is gestational diabetes, the cause, risk factors, and how it affects pregnant women and their babies. 

To help you better understand gestational diabetes let’s first define diabetes and the different types. According to the American Diabetes Association - Diabetes is a disease where your body does not produce insulin (Type 1 diabetes), or does not use insulin as it should (Type 2 diabetes). Gestational diabetes is the third type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy (gestation) and affects up to 10% of pregnancies in the U.S. per year. 

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas acting as a key to unlock cells, allowing glucose—derived from the food we eat—to enter and provide energy for our daily activities. Without this key player - insulin, glucose remains stranded outside the cell walls, unable to fuel our bodily functions. Picture it as a locked door; insulin serves as the magical key to open it up and let glucose in, enabling our cells to thrive and power us through the day.

However, here's where things get crucial, especially for expectant mothers: when insulin isn't around to facilitate this process, glucose starts accumulating in the bloodstream. And let me tell you, that's not a healthy scenario for both you and your baby.

So, what causes gestational diabetes in the first place? The exact cause of this condition is unknown, but here is what experts do know. During pregnancy, the placenta, that fantastic organ nurturing the baby inside mom, goes into overdrive, producing loads of hormones. Now, these hormones are crucial for the little one's growth, but here's the kicker—sometimes, they can throw a curveball by blocking insulin in mom's body. This creates a temporary insulin resistance until the baby arrives. Fun fact: all expecting mothers encounter this resistance to some degree. But fear not! The body's superhero, the pancreas, steps up its game by cranking up insulin production, ensuring that blood glucose levels stay in the safe zone throughout this miraculous process. Amazing, right?

Gestational diabetes arises when a woman's pancreas fails to generate adequate insulin to meet her body's demands throughout pregnancy. This results in an inability to convert blood glucose, leading to hyperglycemia, which serves as a diagnostic marker for gestational diabetes.

How do you know if you have gestational diabetes. "Gestational diabetes can be challenging to identify since it often doesn't show noticeable symptoms. That's why most healthcare professionals advise screening all expecting mothers for gestational diabetes at approximately 24 weeks into their pregnancy. Certain factors, like obesity, advanced maternal age, or a family history of diabetes, heighten the risk and emphasize the importance of screening for this condition."

What factors place mom at risk for gestational diabetes. Several factors increase the risk of developing gestational diabetes in women during pregnancy. Some of these risk factors include:

1. Obesity: Being overweight or obese before pregnancy increases the risk of gestational diabetes.

2. Advanced maternal age: Women aged 25 and older have a higher likelihood of developing gestational diabetes.

3. Family history of diabetes: Having a parent or sibling with diabetes increases the risk of developing gestational diabetes.

4. Previous history of gestational diabetes: Women who have experienced gestational diabetes in previous pregnancies are at higher risk of developing it in subsequent pregnancies.

5. Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups, such as African American, Hispanic/Latino, Native American, South Asian, and Pacific Islander, have a higher predisposition to gestational diabetes.

6. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Women with PCOS have an increased risk of developing gestational diabetes.

7. High blood pressure: Having hypertension before pregnancy or during early pregnancy increases the risk of gestational diabetes.

8. Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity or leading a sedentary lifestyle can also contribute to an increased risk.

9. Having a large baby in a previous pregnancy: If a woman has previously given birth to a baby weighing over 9 pounds (4.1 kilograms), the risk of gestational diabetes in subsequent pregnancies may be higher.

10. Glycemic issues: Conditions such as impaired glucose tolerance or prediabetes can elevate the risk of developing gestational diabetes.

It's important to note that while these factors increase the likelihood of gestational diabetes, not all women with these risk factors will develop the condition. Conversely, some women without apparent risk factors may still develop gestational diabetes. Regular prenatal care that includes screening for gestational diabetes is essential for all pregnant women, especially those with one or more of these risk factors.

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases - Testing for gestational diabetes usually occurs between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. If you have an increased chance of developing gestational diabetes, your doctor may test for diabetes during the first visit after you become pregnant.

Doctors diagnose gestational diabetes through blood tests. There are primarily two types of tests used for diagnosing gestational diabetes:

1. Glucose Challenge Test (GCT): During this test, a sweet liquid containing glucose is consumed, typically without fasting. Blood is drawn after one hour to measure the blood glucose level. If the result shows a blood glucose level of 140 or higher, further testing may be required.

2. Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): This test is more comprehensive and involves fasting for at least 8 hours before the test. Initially, blood is drawn after fasting, and then a sweet liquid containing glucose is consumed. Blood samples are taken at regular intervals (typically every hour for 2 to 3 hours) to monitor how the body processes glucose.

The diagnosis of gestational diabetes is made if blood glucose levels at any two or more of the test times (fasting, 1 hour, 2 hours, or 3 hours) are higher than normal thresholds.

If initial testing shows significantly high blood glucose levels, it's possible to skip the glucose challenge test and proceed directly to the OGTT for diagnosis.

It's essential to follow the guidance of healthcare professionals regarding these tests and their results. If diagnosed with gestational diabetes, a healthcare team will work with the patient to manage blood sugar levels throughout the pregnancy to ensure the health of both the mother and the baby. This may include dietary changes, exercise, and sometimes medication to control blood sugar levels.

Managing gestational diabetes involves a combination of healthy eating, physical activity, monitoring blood glucose levels, and, in some cases, medication. Here are some strategies to help manage gestational diabetes:

1. Healthy Eating Plan: Work with a registered dietitian or a healthcare professional to create a personalized meal plan that suits your nutritional needs. This plan should focus on a balanced diet with adequate portions of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats while controlling portion sizes and distributing meals and snacks throughout the day. It's crucial to monitor your blood sugar response to different foods and adjust your diet accordingly.

2. Regular Monitoring: Keep track of your blood glucose levels as advised by your healthcare team. This will help you understand how different foods, activities, and situations affect your blood sugar levels. Monitoring also helps to identify trends and patterns, enabling better management.

3. Physical Activity: Regular exercise plays a crucial role in managing gestational diabetes. Consult your healthcare provider to determine suitable exercises during pregnancy. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, or stationary cycling can be beneficial. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

4. Medication, if Necessary: In some cases, managing gestational diabetes may require insulin or other medications to control blood sugar levels. Your doctor will determine if medication is necessary and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

5. Regular Prenatal Check-ups: Attend all scheduled prenatal appointments to monitor your and your baby's health closely. Your healthcare team will assess your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

6. Education and Support: Educate yourself about gestational diabetes and seek support from healthcare professionals, support groups, or online communities. Understanding the condition and having a supportive network can make it easier to manage.

7. Stress Management: Reduce stress through relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or prenatal yoga. Stress can impact blood sugar levels, so finding ways to manage stress is important.

Remember, managing gestational diabetes is crucial for the health of both you and your baby. Follow your healthcare provider's guidance, stay consistent with your treatment plan, and make necessary lifestyle adjustments to ensure optimal management of the condition.

Monitoring your blood glucose levels is crucial in managing gestational diabetes. Here are steps to determine if your blood glucose levels are on target:

1. Use a Blood Glucose Meter: Your healthcare team will likely advise you to use a blood glucose meter to check your levels. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider on how to use the meter accurately.

2. Recommended Targets: Typically, the recommended targets for women with gestational diabetes are:

   - Before meals, at bedtime, and overnight: 95 mg/dL or less

   - 1 hour after eating: 140 mg/dL or less

   - 2 hours after eating: 120 mg/dL or less

3. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: It's important to discuss with your doctor or healthcare team to confirm the specific blood glucose targets that are appropriate for you. Individual circumstances might vary, and your healthcare provider will tailor recommendations based on your health condition and pregnancy.

4. Track Your Results: Maintain a record of your blood glucose levels regularly using a blood glucose log (go to www.pregnancyconcepts) to download your free blood glucose log or an electronic tracking system. Record the results every time you check your blood glucose. This log will help you and your healthcare team assess whether your diabetes management plan is effective.

5. Review with Your Healthcare Team: During your visits with your healthcare team, bring along your blood glucose records or electronic tracker. This information will enable your doctor to assess your progress and adjust your diabetes care plan if necessary.

Remember, gestational diabetes management is highly individualized. Regular monitoring and collaboration with your healthcare team are essential for ensuring that your blood glucose levels stay within the target range, promoting a healthy pregnancy for both you and your baby.

Diabetes during pregnancy, particularly if it is not well-managed, can have several implications for both the mother and the baby:

1. Birth Defects: High blood glucose levels, especially in the early stages of pregnancy, can increase the risk of birth defects in the baby's organs, such as the heart, brain, and spine.

2. Preterm Birth: High blood glucose levels can increase the risk of premature birth, where the baby is born before completing the full term of pregnancy.

3. Macrosomia: If the mother's blood glucose levels are high, the baby might grow larger than usual, a condition called macrosomia. This can make delivery difficult and increase the risk of injury to the baby during birth.

4. Respiratory Problems: Babies born to mothers with poorly controlled diabetes may have breathing difficulties after birth.

5. Hypoglycemia: Newborns might experience low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) after birth if the mother's blood glucose levels have been high during pregnancy.

1. Changes in Blood Sugar Levels: Pregnancy hormones can affect blood glucose levels, requiring adjustments in the management of diabetes. Changes in diet, exercise routines, and medication might be necessary.

2. Risk of Complications: Uncontrolled diabetes during pregnancy can increase the risk of complications for the mother, such as high blood pressure, preeclampsia, and an increased likelihood of needing a cesarean delivery.

3. Increased Risk for Future Diabetes: Women who have gestational diabetes are at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

To minimize the risks associated with diabetes during pregnancy, it's crucial to manage blood glucose levels meticulously:

1. Regular Monitoring: Frequent monitoring of blood sugar levels is essential to ensure they remain within the target range.

2. Healthy Lifestyle: Proper diet, regular exercise, and weight management are crucial to controlling blood sugar levels during pregnancy.

3. Medication and Insulin: Some women might need to switch from oral diabetes medications to insulin during pregnancy to better control blood sugar levels.

4. Prenatal Care: Regular visits to healthcare providers specializing in maternal-fetal medicine are necessary for monitoring and managing diabetes during pregnancy.

Proper management significantly reduces the risks to both the mother and the baby, ensuring a healthier pregnancy and childbirth. Therefore, it's essential to work closely with healthcare providers to maintain optimal blood sugar levels throughout pregnancy.

After giving birth, it's essential to monitor your health, especially if you had gestational diabetes during your pregnancy. Here are steps you can take to determine if you have diabetes and ways to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes:

1. Postpartum Testing: Get tested for diabetes no later than 12 weeks after childbirth. High blood glucose levels may indicate type 2 diabetes.

2. Regular Monitoring: Even if your initial test results are normal, continue monitoring your health regularly. You're at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future.

1. Lifestyle Changes:

   - Physical Activity: Engage in regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.

   - Healthy Diet Choices: Opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit processed foods, sugars, and saturated fats.

2. Breastfeeding:

   - Breastfeeding can assist in burning calories and aiding post-pregnancy weight loss. It also offers various health benefits for both you and your baby.

3. Weight Management:

   - If you are overweight and at risk of developing diabetes, consult your doctor for personalized guidance on weight loss strategies.

4. Medication:

   - In some cases, doctors might recommend medications like metformin to help prevent type 2 diabetes. This decision should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider.

1. Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular health check-ups and screenings with your healthcare provider, at least every three years, to monitor your blood glucose levels and overall health.

2. Awareness and Education: Stay informed about the risk factors and symptoms of diabetes. Being aware allows for timely intervention and management if needed.

Remember, adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and weight management, can significantly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance tailored to your specific health needs.

"As we conclude today's episode, we've unpacked the critical topic of gestational diabetes, shedding light on its impact on pregnancy and the well-being of both mother and baby. We emphasized the importance of understanding risk factors, monitoring blood sugar levels, and embracing effective management strategies. Remember, prenatal care and self-care play pivotal roles in navigating this condition for a healthier pregnancy journey.

It's vital to stay informed and proactive, working closely with healthcare providers to ensure optimal care. We hope the insights and guidance provided here serve as valuable resources for all pre-baby and expecting mothers. By knowing your numbers, adopting a balanced lifestyle, and prioritizing regular check-ups, you're taking proactive steps towards a healthier and smoother pregnancy experience.

***PLEASE NOTE:***
While the Amazon contest and scavenger hunt featured in the original episode have ended, you can still share your journey with self-love and self-care by sending your photos to my IG account. And if you’re up for a knowledge check, listen to the first three episodes of our self-love/self-care series and see if you can answer the scavenger hunt questions below! Answers are included for you to test your knowledge:

Question #1 – From Episode #1, Nurturing Self-Love During Parenthood: What are the five aspects of self-love discussed that are especially helpful for first-time moms?
Answer: self-compassion, self-worth and confidence, self-care, personal growth, and celebrating achievements.

Question #2 – From Episode #2, Embracing Self-Care in Motherhood: Name three self-care hacks suggested for moms to incorporate into daily routines.
Answer: getting your schedule game on, embracing "good enough," and embracing help.

Question #3 – From Episode #3, Self-Love/Self-Care and Gestational Diabetes: List any three risk factors associated with developing gestational diabetes during pregnancy.
Answer: obesity, advanced maternal age, family history of diabetes.

Thank you for tuning into this repurposed episode, where we offer helpful guidance on managing gestational diabetes and practical tips for caring for yourself during pregnancy!