Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. It is characterized by high blood sugar levels that occur when the body cannot produce or utilize enough insulin to meet the increased demands of pregnancy. GDM typically develops around the 24th to 28th week of pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth. However, it requires careful management to ensure the health of both the mother and the baby.

The exact cause of gestational diabetes is not fully understood, but hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to insulin resistance, where the body's cells become less responsive to insulin. Certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing GDM, including being overweight or obese before pregnancy, having a family history of diabetes, being older than 25, having a history of gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy, or having certain ethnic backgrounds such as Asian, Hispanic, or African.

Gestational diabetes often does not cause noticeable symptoms, which is why it is important for pregnant women to undergo routine screening between weeks 24 and 28 of pregnancy. Screening involves a glucose challenge test, followed by a diagnostic oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) if the initial screening result is elevated. The OGTT involves fasting blood sugar measurement, followed by the consumption of a glucose drink and subsequent blood sugar measurements at specific intervals.

Managing gestational diabetes primarily involves making lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight. Dietary modifications may include monitoring carbohydrate intake, choosing complex carbohydrates, increasing fiber consumption, and spreading meals throughout the day. In some cases, insulin therapy or oral medication may be necessary to control blood sugar levels effectively.

Proper management of gestational diabetes is crucial to minimize the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby. Uncontrolled gestational diabetes can increase the risk of preeclampsia, high blood pressure, preterm birth, macrosomia (large birth weight), birth injuries, and the need for a cesarean section. Additionally, the baby may be at risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and respiratory distress after birth.

Healthcare providers typically monitor pregnant women with gestational diabetes more closely, including more frequent prenatal visits and monitoring of blood sugar levels. They may also recommend additional ultrasounds to assess the baby's growth and well-being.

After childbirth, blood sugar levels usually return to normal. However, women who have had gestational diabetes have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. It is important to undergo postpartum screening and adopt a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future.

Overall, with proper management and medical guidance, most women with gestational diabetes can achieve good blood sugar control and have healthy pregnancies and babies.