Managing Gestational Diabetes: Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is a condition where blood sugar levels become elevated during pregnancy, affecting how your body processes glucose. While it can be concerning, early diagnosis and proper management can help ensure a healthy pregnancy and baby.

Around 10-15% of pregnant people will get GDM. It usually resolves after the baby is born.

Dr. Basu provides specialised care for gestational diabetes, helping women maintain balanced blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, and personalised medical support.

1. What Causes Gestational Diabetes?

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can make it harder for the body to use insulin effectively, leading to higher blood sugar levels. Certain factors may increase the risk, including:

• Family history of diabetes
• Having a higher weight pre pregnancy
• Having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Previous gestational diabetes in a past pregnancy
• Age over 35, with increased risk if you are over 40
• have previously had a large baby, especially if the baby weighed more than 4.5 kg
• have rapidly gained weight in the first half of pregnancy

While some women develop Gestational Diabetes without any risk factors, early screening can help detect it and prevent complications.

2. Tips for Managing Gestational Diabetes

Balanced Nutrition: Eating for Blood Sugar Control

A healthy pregnancy diet is key to managing gestational diabetes. Focus on:

• Complex carbohydrates: Whole grains, brown rice, quinoa, oats
• High-fibre foods: Vegetables, legumes, and nuts to slow sugar absorption
• Lean proteins: Chicken, fish, eggs, tofu, and beans to stabilise blood sugar
• Healthy fats: Avocados, olive oil, and nuts to support overall health
• Limiting processed sugar: Avoid sugary drinks, pastries, and white bread

Tip: Eating smaller, frequent meals can help prevent blood sugar spikes.

Exercise for Blood Sugar Balance

Staying active can improve insulin sensitivity and help regulate blood sugar. Safe pregnancy exercises include:

• Walking (30 minutes daily)
• Yoga for flexibility and stress relief
• Swimming or water aerobics for low-impact fitness

Always check with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.

Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels

Regular blood glucose monitoring is essential for managing gestational diabetes. Dr. Basu will guide you on:

• How often to check blood sugar levels
• Target blood sugar ranges before and after meals
• Adjustments to diet or activity if levels fluctuate

Medical Management and Insulin Therapy

Some women may need additional treatment beyond diet and exercise. If necessary, Dr. Ajita Basu may recommend:

• Oral medications to help control blood sugar
• Insulin therapy if levels remain high despite lifestyle changes

Every treatment plan is tailored to your specific needs, ensuring a safe pregnancy and healthy baby.

3. Can Gestational Diabetes Affect My Baby?

With proper management, most women with GDM go on to have healthy pregnancies and deliveries. However, uncontrolled gestational diabetes can lead to:

• Excessive fetal growth (macrosomia)
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in the baby after birth
• Higher risk of type 2 diabetes for both mother and child later in life

Regular antenatal care and monitoring helps reduce these risks and support a smooth pregnancy.

4. What Happens After Birth?

For most women, GDM resolves after delivery, but it’s important to have postpartum glucose testing to ensure blood sugar levels return to normal.

To lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later, focus on:

• Maintaining a healthy diet and weight
• Continuing regular exercise
• Schedule a post partum glucose tolerance test to ensure no underlying Type 2 Diabetes 

Personalised Gestational Diabetes Care in Brisbane

Managing gestational diabetes can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Dr. Ajita Basu provides evidence based guidance, personalised treatment plans, and ongoing support to help you have a healthy pregnancy and baby.

If you’ve been diagnosed with gestational diabetes or have concerns about your pregnancy, book a consultation today to receive compassionate, tailored care.