Gestational Diabetes

Last Updated: July 3, 2026

Key Points

High blood sugar that develops during pregnancy
Usually resolves after childbirth
Caused by insufficient insulin production
Can affect both mother and baby
Managed through diet, exercise, and sometimes medication
Increases future risk of type 2 diabetes

Overview

Gestational diabetes is a condition where high blood sugar (glucose) develops specifically during pregnancy. It can occur at any stage but is more common in the second or third trimester. This happens because your body cannot produce enough insulin, a hormone that controls blood sugar levels, to meet the extra demands of pregnancy. While gestational diabetes can lead to problems for both the mother and baby during pregnancy and after birth, these risks can be significantly reduced with early detection and proper management. Most women with gestational diabetes have otherwise normal pregnancies and deliver healthy babies. However, it's important to monitor and manage the condition to prevent potential complications.

Signs and Symptoms

Increased thirst
Needing to urinate more often
Dry mouth
Tiredness
Blurred eyesight
Genital itching or thrush

Things That Increase the Risk

Being over 40 years old
Body Mass Index (BMI) above 30
Previous baby weighed 4.5kg (10lb) or more at birth
Had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy
A parent or sibling has diabetes
Of South Asian, Black, African-Caribbean, or Middle Eastern origin
History of gastric bypass or other weight-loss surgery

Diagnosis

Risk assessment during first antenatal appointment
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)
Fasting blood test (8-10 hours without food/drink)
Glucose drink administered
Second blood test taken 2 hours later
Testing typically done between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy
Earlier testing if previous gestational diabetes

Treatment & Management

Regular blood sugar monitoring
Dietary changes
Increased physical activity (e.g., walking, swimming, prenatal yoga)
Medication (tablets or insulin injections) if lifestyle changes are insufficient
Close monitoring during pregnancy and birth
Consideration of birth before 41 weeks (induction or C-section)

Prevention

Maintain a healthy weight
Eat a balanced diet
Exercise regularly
Screening for diabetes before future pregnancies
Early screening during future pregnancies if history of gestational diabetes

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Gestational Diabetes: