What are the early signs of gestational diabetes?

Gestational diabetes often has no clear warning signs, and many women feel completely normal until routine testing is done during pregnancy. If symptoms do appear, they may include frequent urination, increased thirst, tiredness, and nausea.

Can gestational diabetes be transferred to the baby?

If diabetes is not controlled well, the baby can be exposed to high levels of blood sugar. This can affect both mother and baby during and after birth.

Early Gestational Diabetes Rates are Rising Among Pregnant Women

Early gestational diabetes can now happen in the first trimester of pregnancy. Shocking right? Two recent Indian studies have stated that pregnant women may develop early gestational diabetes in their first trimester. The research shows that nearly one in four pregnant women in India may develop gestational diabetes, and South Asian women are at a higher risk.

These findings are changing how doctors think about pregnancy care. These studies also highlight the importance of awareness among new mothers, giving them a chance to protect their health and their baby’s well-being. Let’s understand more about gestational diabetes and how mothers-to-be can take the right measures to lower their risk.

What Is Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes, often called GDM, is a type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy. It happens when the body cannot manage blood sugar levels properly due to hormonal changes.

Gestational diabetes usually goes away after delivery. But if not detected and managed on time, it can affect both the mother and the baby. Many women with GDM feel completely normal. This is why testing is so important.

What Is Early Gestational Diabetes (EGDM)?

For many years, doctors believed gestational diabetes usually started later in pregnancy. Hence, testing for it was commonly done between 24 and 28 weeks.

However, new studies have now revealed new information. According to studies, some women develop diabetes in the first three months of pregnancy. This is now called Early Gestational Diabetes (EGDM). When diabetes appears later, it is called Late Gestational Diabetes (LGDM). This early onset often goes unnoticed unless testing is done early.

What Do the New Indian Studies Reveal?

Two major studies provided this breakthrough evidence. The first study was conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research under the ICMR–INDIAB project. It looked at 1,032 pregnant women across India. The results were eye-opening.

22.4% had gestational diabetes
19.2% had early gestational diabetes
23.4% developed it later in pregnancy
Central India showed the highest rates
There was no difference between urban and rural women

The second study, called STRiDE, was a collaboration involving the University of Warwick and antenatal clinics in India and Kenya. It followed 3,070 women before 16 weeks of pregnancy. It found:

21.5% had early gestational diabetes
19.5% developed it later

Together, these studies provide the first global evidence that early gestational diabetes is common and clinically important.

Why Are South Asian Women at Higher Risk?

The studies showed that South Asian women are more vulnerable to gestational diabetes, especially early GDM. This risk is not limited to women who are overweight. Even women with lower body weight or from economically weaker backgrounds showed high rates.

Experts believe genetics, metabolism, and environmental factors may play a role. Some causes are still being studied. This makes early screening especially important for Indian and South Asian moms.

Why Is Early Testing for Gestational Diabetes So Important Now?

In most cases, pregnant women were tested for gestational diabetes only after six months. However, the need for testing early has become important after the data revealed by the new Indian studies. Early testing for gestational diabetes can help doctors:

Identify blood sugar problems sooner
Start care early
Reduce pregnancy complications

Who Is More Likely to Develop Early GDM?

The studies found certain risk factors linked to early gestational diabetes. You may be at a higher risk for early GDM if you:

Had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy
Have a higher BMI
Have higher HbA1c levels
Have a family history of diabetes

How Can Early GDM Affect Mom and Baby?

Having high blood sugar levels in pregnancy can cause problems for both the mother and child. For mothers, it increases:

Pregnancy complications
Increased risk of C-section if the baby is too big
Preeclampsia (high blood pressure in pregnancy)
The future risk of type 2 diabetes

For babies, this may include:

Low blood sugar after birth
Early delivery
Larger birth weight (foetal macrosomia)
Breathing problems at birth
Premature birth
Obesity
Risk of type 2 diabetes in the future

Can Early Detection of Gestational diabetes Improve Pregnancy Outcomes?

Early detection of gestational diabetes can significantly impact pregnancy progression and outcomes. When detected early, doctors can provide the right guidance to mothers about the management of gestational diabetes. Doctors usually prescribe a combination of a healthy lifestyle, medications (if required), and blood sugar monitoring.

What Tests Are Used to Detect GDM Early?

To detect GDM early, a doctor may prescribe tests such as:

Blood sugar tests
HbA1c testing
Oral glucose tests

Earlier gestational diabetes tests were done at around 24 to 28 weeks of pregnancy. However, new studies have shed light on the importance of early testing. This is especially important for women who are at risk.

What Should Expectant Mothers Do About Gestational Diabetes?

Expectant mothers or those planning a pregnancy need to take a few cautious steps. These include:

Speaking to their healthcare provider early
Asking about first-trimester diabetes screening
Following medical advice without panic

How to Prevent Gestational Diabetes?

There is no sure method of preventing gestational diabetes. However, there are several measures that can help reduce the risk. These preventive measures include:

Eating right before and during pregnancy
Staying active before and during pregnancy
Maintaining a healthy weight

New Indian studies revealing that early gestational diabetes can occur in the first trimester are concerning. However, with the right care and timely interventions, gestational diabetes can be managed. These studies highlight the importance of early screening. Hence, as mothers-to-be, it is important to create awareness about early gestational diabetes, as well as speak to your healthcare provider. Being informed about gestational diabetes and its outcomes can help you move through your pregnancy with the right measures.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Early Gestational Diabetes Rates Are Rising Among Pregnant Women

What are the early signs of gestational diabetes?
Gestational diabetes often has no clear warning signs, and many women feel completely normal until routine testing is done during pregnancy. If symptoms do appear, they may include frequent urination, increased thirst, tiredness, and nausea.
Can gestational diabetes be transferred to the baby?
If diabetes is not controlled well, the baby can be exposed to high levels of blood sugar. This can affect both mother and baby during and after birth.