Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy (gestation). It can be experienced by women who before pregnancy did not have diabetes , and the blood sugar levels return to normal levels soon after the baby's delivery . During pregnancy, the placenta produces certain hormones which interfere with the ability of insulin to manage sugar levels. Therefore the pancreas produces about three times more insulin during pregnancy. However, if the pancreas fails to produce optimum amount of insulin to overcome the effects of the hormones being produced by placenta, the blood glucose levels increase and cause gestational diabetes.

Controlling blood sugar can help prevent a difficult birth and keep you and your baby healthy. The necessary measures that can be taken include a healthy diet, regular exercise and taking the prescribed medications or supplements.

If you have had gestational diabetes, you may be at risk for developing Type 2 Diabetes , later on in life.

When to seek expert advice

If possible, consult a doctor early, when you first think about trying to get pregnant or when you first find out that you are pregnant. Our team of medical specialists working with the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology​ at The Aga Khan University Hospital is equipped to offer patients an accurate diagnosis and state-of-the-art medical treatment.
Your doctor can evaluate your risk of gestational diabetes as part of your overall childbearing wellness plan.

You may be at risk for having gestational diabetes if you were overweight before getting pregnant or if you have a mother, father, brother, sister or child with diabetes.

If you are younger than 25 years and have no risk factors, it is unlikely that you will develop gestational diabetes. However, it is always best to consult your doctor to be sure.​