Spoiler Alert: So you and your baby can be healthy in the long-term
Mom’s Health
Excessive rises in blood sugar can lead to high blood pressure for mom (preeclampsia)
Delivery of a large baby can result in birth canal injuries and increase the risk of cesarean section (surgical delivery of the baby)
Baby’s Health
During gestational diabetes, too much sugar is shared with the baby. This sugar is stored as fat, lead to a large baby (”macrosomia”)
Babies are also at risk of having a sharp drop is blood sugar after birth, and may need special care at the Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). High blood sugars can also limit oxygen supply to the baby.
Long Term
Gestational diabetes can lead to type 2 diabetes. This is why maintaining the habits you’ve developed during pregnancy to manage your blood sugar is important. Learn more about type 2 diabetes from the American Diabetes Association
Gestational diabetes increases the risk of cesarean section (also known as c-section)