If you have been diagnosed with gestational diabetes, you will hear a lot about your blood glucose level when pregnant.
Women with this disease, tend to exhibit a high blood glucose level, and they develop a resistance to insulin.
You've probably heard a lot about your blood glucose level already.
The definition of gestational diabetes, itself, has a lot to do with a woman's glucose level when pregnant, is.
The screening series of tests done on pregnant women is in order to determine if she has inappropriately high blood glucose level.
Tests become increasingly important, since most women do not experience specific symptoms related to gestational diabetes.
There are three primary tests conducted on a woman to read her blood glucose level when pregnant.
These tests are not only instrumental in measuring the expectant mother's blood glucose level, but also determining if she has gestational diabetes.
The first test is called the fasting glucose test.
In this test, blood is drawn and tested on the woman.
She would have been fasting for at least 8 hours, prior to this test.
After the blood is tested, her blood glucose level will be known.
The next test performed is called the 2-hour postprandial test.
This one is done after the woman has eaten a meal.
The next test is a random glucose test.
Through these and other methods, doctors will be able to diagnose gestational diabetes.
If after the fasting glucose test, a woman's levels are higher than 126mg, further testing is not needed.
She most likely has gestational diabetes.
After being diagnosed, the next concern for pregnant women is treatment.
Treatment can involve multiple things.
It is important to note, that gestational diabetes, can be managed through proper treatment.
Dietary changes and exercise are important components in the process of treatment.
With these two methods, a woman can ensure that she doesn't experience further problems from her condition.
It is already important for pregnant women to monitor their weight.
So, it shouldn't be a surprise that this is necessary when she has gestational diabetes.
This process involves not only making good food choices, but practicing healthy eating habits.
It is also crucial, that some form, of regular exercise, be incorporated into this pregnant woman's schedule.
Exercise helps to keep the woman's blood sugar within a safe range.
It also assists in the weight maintenance process, as well.
Exercise, like all physical activities during pregnancy, should be done in moderation.
Be sure to consult your physician about a good exercise program for you to practice.
Depending on the way your diabetes progresses, diet and exercise, may be accompanied by medication.
Some doctors will instruct their patients to take specific medications for their gestational diabetes.
They often prescribe, anti-diabetic drugs, such as insulin.
In these cases, a nurse is typically assigned to the patient.
Your nurse will help you with a number of things.
He or she will be able to assist you with the taking of insulin, and ways to monitor your diet.