Hey there, mom-to-be! Are you experiencing high blood sugar during this journey that you didn’t have before? That’s gestational diabetes insipidus, and it can happen during pregnancy.
Don’t worry! We are here to guide you regarding this high blood sugar you are facing. You must educate yourself and work to avoid any potential pregnancy complications.
Let’s get into understanding gestational diabetes insipidus.
Table of Contents
What is Gestational Diabetes Insipidus?
Gestational diabetes insipidus (GDI) is a condition that affects pregnant women, leading to increased thirst and excessive urination.
Unlike the more common diabetes mellitus, which involves issues with blood sugar regulation, gestational diabetes insipidus is related to the body’s inability to balance fluid levels properly.
This condition occurs due to an insufficient production or utilization of a hormone called vasopressin, which regulates the body’s water balance.
When vasopressin is not functioning correctly, it can result in excessive thirst and frequent urination, making the pregnancy quite challenging.
What are the Symptoms of Gestational Diabetes Insipidus?
Dr. Abdul Rafay , an experienced dietitian with expert years in the field of managing diabetic dietary regulations, describes the symptoms of gestational diabetes:
Excessive Thirst
One of the most noticeable symptoms of GDI is an unquenchable thirst.
Expecting mothers with GDI may find themselves reaching for a glass of water more frequently than usual, even shortly after drinking.
Suggested Read: How to Fix Diabetes Thirst?
Frequent Urination
Increased thirst naturally leads to excessive urination.
Women with GDI might find themselves making more trips to the bathroom, both during the day and at night, which can disrupt their sleep and daily routines.
Dehydration
Despite drinking large amounts of water, dehydration can still occur in GDI due to the constant loss of fluids through urination.
It can lead to symptoms such as dry mouth, dry skin, and, in severe cases, dizziness or fainting.
Electrolyte Imbalance
Frequent urination in GDI can result in an imbalance of essential electrolytes in the body, like sodium and potassium.
It can manifest as muscle weakness, fatigue, or even heart palpitations.
Fatigue and Discomfort
The combination of disrupted sleep due to frequent urination and dehydration can lead to fatigue, making daily activities more challenging during pregnancy.
What are the Causes of Gestational Diabetes Insipidus?
Gestational diabetes insipidus occurs due to changes in the hormonal balance in a pregnant woman’s body.
During pregnancy, the placenta produces an enzyme called vasopressinase, which can break down vasopressin, the hormone responsible for regulating fluid balance. It results in a decreased level of vasopressin in the body, leading to GDI symptoms.
Additionally, other factors may contribute to GDI, including:
Hormonal Changes
The surge in certain hormones during pregnancy can affect the body’s ability to maintain fluid balance properly.
Genetic Predisposition
A family history of diabetes insipidus may increase the risk of developing GDI during pregnancy.
Multiple Gestation
Women carrying multiple fetuses, such as twins or triplets, may be at a higher risk of developing GDI due to the increased hormonal changes and stress on the body.
What Complications Can Occur Due to Gestational Diabetes?
If not managed, GDI can lead to various complications for both the mother and the baby.
Here are the details of some of the potential complications associated with gestational diabetes:
An Extra Large Baby (Macrosomia)
Gestational diabetes can result in the baby growing larger than usual during pregnancy, a condition known as macrosomia.
It occurs because excess glucose in the mother’s blood crosses the placenta and stimulates the baby’s pancreas to produce more insulin, causing increased fetal growth.
Cesarean Section
The risk of needing a cesarean section (C-section) elevates in pregnancies with gestational diabetes.
It is often a result of complications related to macrosomia or other factors, such as prolonged labor, which can be associated with the condition.
High Blood Pressure (Preeclampsia)
Gestational diabetes can increase the risk of developing high blood pressure, a condition called preeclampsia, during pregnancy.
Preeclampsia is characterized by elevated blood pressure, along with damage to other organ systems like the liver and kidneys. It can be dangerous for both the mother and the baby.
Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia) in the Baby
Babies born to mothers with gestational diabetes are at risk of experiencing low blood sugar shortly after birth.
It occurs because the baby’s pancreas may continue to produce excess insulin after birth due to the sudden decrease in glucose supply from the mother.
Hypoglycemia can lead to symptoms such as tremors, seizures, and difficulty feeding.
Diet Tips to Manage Gestational Diabetes
You should manage gestational diabetes through diet to ensure the health of both the mother and the developing baby.
Here’s a more detailed explanation of these diet tips:
Eat 3 Meals and 2-3 Snacks Daily
Consuming regular, balanced meals and snacks helps regulate blood sugar levels. It prevents large spikes and crashes in blood glucose. It can be harmful to both the mother and the baby.
Don’t skip meals or go too long without eating.
Be Mindful of Starchy Foods
Starchy foods like bread, rice, and pasta are sources of carbohydrates, which can significantly impact blood sugar levels.
Opt for whole grains like brown rice and whole wheat bread, as they contain more fiber and release glucose into the bloodstream more slowly.
Controlling portion sizes of starchy foods is also crucial.
One 8-ounce Cup of Milk at a Time
Milk is a valuable source of calcium and protein. However, drinking too much milk at once can lead to a rapid increase in blood sugar levels.
Consume an 8-ounce (1 cup) serving at a time and choose low-fat or skim options if possible.
One Small Portion of Fruit at a Time
Fruits are a healthy choice, but they contain natural sugars in the form of fructose. Eating smaller portions of fruits helps manage blood sugar more effectively.
For instance, you can have a small apple instead of a large one. Spread fruit consumption throughout the day rather than consuming a large amount in one sitting.
Eat More Fiber
Fiber-rich foods, such as vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, play a crucial role in stabilizing blood sugar levels.
Fiber slows down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, preventing rapid spikes in blood sugar.
Eating these foods can help manage gestational diabetes more effectively.
Never Skip Breakfast
Breakfast is particularly important for those with gestational diabetes.
Skipping meals, especially breakfast, can cause blood sugar to drop too low, leading to fatigue and increased hunger later in the day.
A balanced breakfast provides a steady energy source and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Avoid Fruit Juice and Sugary Drinks
Fruit juices and sugary drinks can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar due to their high sugar content. Avoid these beverages and opt for water, herbal teas, or unsweetened alternatives.
Whole fruits are a better choice as they provide fiber and essential nutrients in addition to natural sugars.
Limit Sweet Treats and Desserts Strictly
Sweets and desserts, while enjoyable, can lead to increases in blood sugar levels.
When craving sweets, try to choose sugar-free or low-sugar options to minimize the impact on blood sugar.
When Should You Visit a Diabetologist?
If you have been diagnosed with gestational diabetes, consult a diabetologist as soon as possible.
Your doctor can guide you on monitoring your blood glucose levels, making dietary adjustments, and prescribing insulin to maintain stable blood sugar levels during pregnancy.
Your obstetrician may also work closely with the diabetologist to coordinate your care throughout your pregnancy.
Regular consultations with a diabetologist can help manage gestational diabetes effectively and reduce the risk of complications at the time of birth.
Reach out to a qualified diabetologist via Healthwire.
