Hypoglycemia

Question 1

What is the primary cause of maternal hypoglycemia in women with diabetes after delivery?

Answer 1

Rapid changes in insulin requirements after the delivery of the baby and placenta

Insulin requirements can decrease dramatically, leading to hypoglycemia if not adjusted.

Question 2

How do placental hormones affect maternal insulin resistance during pregnancy?

Answer 2

Placental hormones create insulin resistance, requiring higher insulin doses

After delivery, the decrease in these hormones can abruptly reduce insulin resistance.

Question 3

What happens to the mother’s glucose homeostasis after the birth of the placenta?

Answer 3

The loss of placental glucose demand can unbalance the mother’s glucose homeostasis

The placenta demands significant glucose during pregnancy, which is lost after birth.

Question 4

What is hyperinsulinemia in newborns, and how can it occur?

Answer 4

Hyperinsulinemia is when the baby produces more insulin due to high blood sugar exposure in utero

This condition is often seen in newborns of mothers with poorly controlled diabetes.

Question 5

What are the risks associated with premature newborns regarding hypoglycemia?

Answer 5

Premature or growth-restricted newborns may have limited glycogen stores

This limitation increases the risk for hypoglycemia.

Question 6

What is the first recommended action to prevent hypoglycemia in newborns after birth?

Answer 6

Early and frequent feeding

Encouraging breastfeeding or formula feeding helps maintain normal blood glucose levels.

Question 7

When should blood glucose monitoring begin for at-risk newborns?

Answer 7

Within the first hour of life

Regular follow-ups depend on risk factors and initial readings.

Question 8

What intervention may be necessary if a newborn’s blood sugar levels are critically low and do not respond to feeding?

Answer 8

Intravenous glucose administration

This is critical for managing severe hypoglycemia.

Question 9

List some symptoms of hypoglycemia in newborns.

Answer 9

• Jitteriness
• Poor feeding
• Lethargy
• Seizures (in severe cases)

Monitoring for these symptoms is crucial for timely intervention.

Question 10

What type of care might some newborns require if hypoglycemia is persistent or severe?

Answer 10

Monitoring in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)

NICU care may be necessary for ongoing management of hypoglycemia.

Question 11

True or False: Both maternal and newborn hypoglycemia require careful monitoring and prompt treatment.

Answer 11

True

Collaboration with healthcare providers is essential for managing these risks.

Question 12

Fill in the blank: After birth, a mother’s insulin requirements can change _______.

Answer 12

[rapidly]

This can lead to hypoglycemia if not properly managed.