A pregnant woman who develops diabetes during her pregnancy is typically said to have gestational diabetes.
Understanding Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is defined as diabetes that is first diagnosed during pregnancy (gestation). According to the provided reference, it's a condition where a woman experiences high blood sugar levels during pregnancy, impacting both her health and the baby's well-being.
Key Aspects of Gestational Diabetes:
- Timing of Diagnosis: It's diagnosed for the first time during pregnancy.
- Mechanism: Like other forms of diabetes, it affects how cells utilize glucose (sugar).
- Impact: Leads to high blood sugar, which can potentially affect both the pregnancy and the baby's health.
Management and Implications
While the original question doesn't directly ask about managing gestational diabetes, it's important to note that it typically involves careful monitoring of blood sugar levels, dietary adjustments, and potentially medication (like insulin) to maintain healthy glucose levels throughout the remainder of the pregnancy. After delivery, gestational diabetes usually resolves.
