5. Gestational Diabetes Melitis (GDM)

• This means having high blood sugar during pregnancy that usually goes away after child birth. 

• It occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin to meet the increased needs of pregnancy, leading to high glucose levels in the blood. 

• Poorly managed GDM increases the risk of having a large baby (Fetal Macrosomia).   

• Such babies might become “stuck” in the birth canal (Shoulder Dystocia), have birth injuries or require C-section delivery. 

Management to improve outcomes: 

• Attend all your prenatal appointments throughout your pregnancy. 

• Adhere to the Care Pathway developed for you to manage your pregnancy. 

• Comply with the treatment regime commenced all through your pregnancy. 

• Eat a healthy diet; avoid foods like: potatoes, white rice, white bread, candy, soda/other sweets that will cause a spike on your blood glucose once eaten. 

• Stay active. 

• Read and inform yourself about the condition and management and take ownership of it.