Gestational diabetes

Question 1

What are some risk factors for gestational diabetes?

Answer 1

• BMI >30kg/m2
• Previous baby >4.5kg
• Previous gestational diabetes
• 1st degree relative with gestational diabetes

Question 2

When does gestational diabetes usually develop?

Answer 2

Between 24-36 weeks

Question 3

What is the dietary management?

Answer 3

• Eat regular meals –> include a low GI starchy CHO at meals
• Avoids drinking sugar drinks and fruit juice
• Limit sugary food, cakes, biscuits, chocolates and puddings
• Balanced diet
• Continue to follow food safety advice

Question 4

What are the risks of gestational diabetes?

Answer 4

• Pre-eclampsia
• Still birth
• Congenital malformations
• Macrosomia –> large baby
• Perinatal mortality
• Post natal adaption problems
• Obesity/ diabetes developing later in life for the baby.