⚠ INFORMATIONAL USE ONLY. This tool is for educational purposes and clinical decision support. It does NOT provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. All therapeutic decisions must be discussed with and made by a qualified healthcare provider.
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy in women who did not previously have diabetes. It occurs when the body cannot make enough insulin to meet the extra demands of pregnancy, causing blood sugar levels to rise above normal.
Why Does It Matter?
Uncontrolled GDM can increase the risk of complications for both mother and baby, including:
Large baby (macrosomia), which can complicate delivery
Preeclampsia (high blood pressure in pregnancy)
Cesarean delivery
Baby's low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) after birth
Increased risk of type 2 diabetes for the mother later in life
When is Screening Done?
Most pregnant women are screened for GDM between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy using a glucose challenge test. Women with certain risk factors may be screened earlier in pregnancy.
How is it Treated?
Diet & Exercise: Most women can control GDM with a healthy diet and regular moderate exercise (e.g., walking 10–15 minutes after meals).
Blood Sugar Monitoring: Checking blood sugar levels at home several times a day.
Medication: If diet and exercise are not enough, insulin injections are the preferred treatment. Metformin (a pill) may be used in some cases.
After Delivery
GDM usually resolves after delivery. However, women who had GDM have a significantly higher lifetime risk of developing type 2 diabetes. ACOG recommends a follow-up blood sugar test (75g OGTT) between 4 and 12 weeks postpartum.
Important: This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult with your OB/GYN or Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialist for personalized medical advice.