Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a condition where women who have not not been previously diagnosed with diabetes develop high blood sugar levels during pregnancy.  Some of the hormones that are elevated during pregnancy can block insulin from allowing glucose into your cells, something that often happens in the second trimester.  You are at greater risk of developing the condition if you have a family history of type 2 diabetes, have high blood pressure, were overweight before your pregnancy, or have had a previous pregnancy with a child weighing more than nine pounds at birth.  Other risk factors include smoking and possibly polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

What is gestational diabetes?

Symptoms of gestational diabetes include blurred vision, fatigue, infections, increase thirst and urination, nausea and vomiting, and weight loss despite increased appetite.  Gestational diabetes usually resolves itself once the baby is born, although there is a chance you may develop diabetes permanently.

Because gestational diabetes is fairly common, your doctor will more than likely recommend a glucose tolerance test between the 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy whether or not you are showing signs.  If you experience some or any of the symptoms listed above before this time, be sure to tell your doctor and request this test.  One diagnosed, you will be required to perform glucose tests at home, and ultrasound and non-stress tests will help monitor the health of your baby.  Insulin therapy may or may not be required.

How can natural medicine treat gestational diabetes?

Nutritional counselling can help ensure that you have the best diet plan in place for you and your baby.  Acupuncture and TCM can help with many of your symptoms and can help regulate blood sugar levels, thus preventing or helping to manage gestational diabetes. Moderate exercise such as yoga can assist in keeping you and your baby healthy, and massage therapy can aid in providing relief from your symptoms.

Contact us for a FREE consultation on how natural therapy can help you prevent and manage the symptoms of gestational diabetes.

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