Gestational diabetes is high blood sugar that develops during pregnancy. It is common, usually temporary, and very manageable — especially when caught early through routine screening.
Who is screened, and when
Most women are screened between weeks 24 and 28 with a glucose test. If you have risk factors — such as a family history, previous large baby or higher BMI — you may be tested earlier.
How it is managed
- A balanced eating plan with controlled carbohydrates
- Regular gentle activity after meals
- Home blood-sugar monitoring
- Medication or insulin only if lifestyle is not enough
With good control, most women with gestational diabetes have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
Frequently asked questions
It usually resolves after delivery, but it raises your future risk of type 2 diabetes, so a follow-up test and healthy habits afterwards are important.
