Experts say that if the mother's blood sugar level remains high for a long time during pregnancy, it can affect the child's brain, body growth, and future health.

gestational diabetes mellitus

Pregnancy diabetes, medically known as gestational diabetes, is often assumed to be limited to pregnancy and disappear after childbirth. However, recent research suggests that this condition can be a cause for concern not only for the mother but also for the child's future health. Experts say that if a mother's blood sugar levels remain high for a prolonged period during pregnancy, it can impact the child's brain, physical growth, and future health. Therefore, early identification and proper management are crucial. 

The causes of gestational diabetes are rapidly increasing in India.

In recent years, India has seen a rapid increase in the incidence of gestational diabetes. This condition now affects approximately one in four pregnancies. Several factors are believed to be behind this, including increasing obesity, lack of physical activity, delayed conception, a family history of diabetes, and the genetic predisposition to diabetes in Indians. According to doctors, many women may already be affected by prediabetes or undiagnosed type 2 diabetes before pregnancy, increasing the risk of developing diabetes during pregnancy. 

What is gestational diabetes?

When a woman does not have pre-existing diabetes but experiences elevated blood sugar levels during pregnancy, it is called gestational diabetes. This condition typically occurs between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. This is the time when the baby's brain and nervous system are rapidly developing, making blood sugar control crucial. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can reduce the body's insulin effectiveness. If the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin, blood sugar levels rise, leading to gestational diabetes. The problem is that in most cases, there are no symptoms. Therefore, it can be difficult to detect without regular checkups.

How it affects children.

The mother's blood sugar directly affects the baby. Glucose reaches the baby through the placenta. If the mother's blood sugar is high, the baby's sugar levels also increase. The baby's pancreas begins to produce excess insulin. This condition can affect the baby's body and organ growth. Some research suggests that such children may have a slightly increased risk of attention deficit disorder, behavioral challenges, delayed motor skills, and, in some cases, neurological problems like epilepsy. While this may not be true for every child, controlling blood sugar can significantly reduce these risks.

Problems can occur even after birth.

While in the womb, the baby produces more insulin to control high sugar levels. However, after birth, as soon as the umbilical cord is cut, this excess supply of sugar suddenly stops. This can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar in the newborn, a condition known as neonatal hypoglycemia. This can lead to weakness, anxiety, difficulty feeding, and in severe cases, seizures. These children may be at higher risk of obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes later in life. Scientists call this fetal programming, where the environment in the womb can influence the body's metabolism and gene function in the future.

How to control pregnancy diabetes

Gestational diabetes can be managed effectively. Doctors generally recommend a diet rich in fiber and low in refined carbohydrates. Regular moderate exercise, such as walking for 20–30 minutes daily, should be performed. Monitor blood sugar levels as directed by your doctor. In some cases, insulin therapy is prescribed, which is considered safe during pregnancy.