What happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled?
Pregnancy is a time of excitement and anticipation, but it also comes with increased health considerations. Gestational diabetes, a condition that develops during pregnancy, requires careful management to ensure the wellbeing of both the mother and the baby. In this blog, we’ll explore the potential consequences of uncontrolled gestational diabetes and shed light on how it can impact the baby.
Reasons for managing and controlling your gestational diabetes
Complications for the mother
- Increased risk of type 2 diabetes: Gestational diabetes can increase the mother’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life if not properly managed. Regular monitoring and lifestyle changes can help mitigate this risk.
Risks during pregnancy
- Preeclampsia: Uncontrolled gestational diabetes may contribute to an increased risk of developing preeclampsia, a condition characterised by high blood pressure and potential organ damage.
- Caesarean delivery: Women with gestational diabetes are more likely to undergo a caesarean section due to concerns about the baby’s size and other complications.
Impact on the baby
- Macrosomia: One of the most common concerns is macrosomia, where the baby grows larger than average. This can lead to complications during delivery and increase the risk of injury to both the baby and the mother.
- Birth injuries: The risk of birth injuries, such as shoulder dystocia, is higher when a baby is larger than usual. This occurs when the baby’s head passes through the birth canal, but the shoulders become stuck.
- Hypoglycaemia at birth: Babies born to mothers with uncontrolled gestational diabetes may experience low blood sugar levels (hypoglycaemia) shortly after birth. This requires monitoring and, in some cases, intervention.
Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS)
- Delayed lung maturity: Babies born to mothers with poorly controlled gestational diabetes may face challenges with lung maturity, increasing the risk of respiratory distress syndrome. This condition can affect the baby’s ability to breathe independently.
Increased risk of type 2 diabetes in the child
- Long-term consequences: Babies born to mothers with uncontrolled gestational diabetes are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. This risk emphasises the importance of proactive management during pregnancy.
Neonatal jaundice
- Bilirubin buildup: Uncontrolled gestational diabetes can contribute to an increased risk of neonatal jaundice, a condition where the baby’s skin and eyes take on a yellowish tint due to elevated bilirubin levels.
Summary
The potential consequences of uncontrolled gestational diabetes highlight the importance of proactive management during pregnancy. Regular prenatal care, monitoring blood sugar levels, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and following healthcare provider recommendations are crucial to minimising risks for both the mother and the baby. By prioritising effective management strategies, expectant mothers can contribute to a healthier pregnancy and lay the foundation for the wellbeing of their child beyond birth.
Sign up for the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme