Myths, misconceptions and facts on gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a condition seen in pregnancies when the mothers experience (due to several reasons) experience high blood glucose levels. This risk is increasingly seen in many pregnancy cases and involves a lot of risk of getting diabetes (after pregnancy) for both the mother and child.

• A diabetic condition is not developed by consumption of too many sweet products. Sugar contains high amount of glucose and if it’s consumed as a part of a balanced diet (along with exercise), then people can consume it without the risk of diabetes.

• Lifestyle acts as a trigger for development of diabetes. It is neither the gun nor the bullet. Lack of activity may lead to diabetes, so women should follow a good balanced diet (double energy required for child and mother) and should do little exercises without stretching themselves or the baby too much.

• Stress doesn’t lead to diabetes. Although, stress can have other harmful effects on the child and mother’s condition.

• Genetic factors contribute a lot in development of diabetes. So expecting mothers or women who are ‘trying’ should always consult their physicians regarding their family histories.

• Children may get affected if their mothers have been diagnosed with gestational diabetes. However, if they are affected, even then the complications can be avoided through balanced diet, good exercises and insulin shots (if required). With these measures, a child can live his/her life like a healthy individual.

• Diabetes is not caught on like other viral diseases. So, expecting mothers can be around people who have diabetes.

• There is no static cure for diabetes. But mothers (expecting or otherwise) shouldn’t get too much stressed on this. A healthy diet, exercise and medications (oral or insulin shots) can prevent it’s harmful complications.

by Dr. Rajesh Moganti on 26. Jan, 2010 in diabetes myths and facts