Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that emerges during pregnancy in individuals who did not have it before conception. Misconceptions often arise about its causes. Understanding the actual mechanisms and contributing factors is important for pregnant individuals and their families.
Understanding Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes develops when the body cannot produce enough insulin or meet the increased demands of pregnancy. During pregnancy, the placenta, which nourishes the developing fetus, produces various hormones, including human placental lactogen, estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol. These hormones are essential for the baby’s growth and development.
These placental hormones can interfere with the pregnant individual’s ability to use insulin effectively, a phenomenon known as insulin resistance. Insulin, produced by the pancreas, helps glucose from food enter the body’s cells for energy. When insulin resistance occurs, glucose accumulates in the bloodstream, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. While all pregnant individuals experience some insulin resistance in late pregnancy, those with gestational diabetes cannot produce enough additional insulin to overcome it.
Key Risk Factors and Management
Several factors can increase a pregnant individual’s likelihood of developing gestational diabetes. Individuals who are overweight or obese before pregnancy have a higher risk, as excess body fat can contribute to insulin resistance. A family history of type 2 diabetes also elevates risk, suggesting a genetic predisposition. Those who have had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy are at increased risk in subsequent pregnancies.
Other contributing factors include being over age 25, having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or belonging to certain ethnic backgrounds such as Hispanic, Black, Indigenous American, or Asian. Screening for gestational diabetes occurs between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy through an oral glucose tolerance test. Once diagnosed, management focuses on maintaining healthy blood sugar levels through dietary modifications and regular physical activity. This often involves working with a dietitian to create a balanced eating plan that limits sugary foods and refined carbohydrates.
Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels at home is a part of managing gestational diabetes. If diet and exercise are not sufficient to control blood sugar, the healthcare provider may prescribe insulin injections or other medications. Effective management helps prevent complications for both the pregnant individual and the baby, such as excessive fetal growth, preterm birth, or the pregnant individual developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
The Father’s Supportive Role in Pregnancy
While gestational diabetes arises from physiological changes within the pregnant individual’s body, the father plays a supportive role throughout the pregnancy journey. Fathers can provide emotional encouragement, helping partners manage stress and maintain a positive outlook. This support can be valuable when dietary changes or increased physical activity feel challenging.
Fathers can also participate in promoting a healthy lifestyle by joining in healthy eating habits and engaging in regular exercise together. This shared commitment can make it easier for the pregnant individual to adhere to recommended lifestyle adjustments. Attending prenatal appointments and being involved in discussions with healthcare providers also demonstrates partnership and helps both parents prepare for the baby’s arrival. This supportive involvement contributes to a healthier pregnancy environment without influencing the biological mechanisms of gestational diabetes itself.