Gestational diabetes test and risk

[melissa1215]

Hi all,

I'm only 12 weeks along but I have to take a gestational diabetes test in July because my midwife said my risk is higher because my mum and sister are both type 1 diabetics, I'm fine about this but..

Just wondering if anyone knows ways to avoid getting it? I eat well (though I will eat something 'naughty' if I want it) I'm normal weight, quite active.

Has anyone had any experience with gestational diabetes?

I had it in both pregnancies but managed it with diet, and never needed medication for it.

I was induced early as they said DD was on the 95th centile for size, but she really wasn't - she was less than 8 pounds in the end.

You need to be careful - your risk is elevated and the stakes are high. My friend's son was stillborn due to undiagnosed GD.

If I were you I'd watch my sugar intake - the worst things for me would have been milk, carbs like white bread and chips, and obviously no sweets. So for example I'd have salmon, with a ton of veg and salad for dinner, etc.

No experience of it, but like you I have a higher risk due to diabetes in the family and will have the test again.

As I understand it, it's a hormonal response to being pregnant and largely outside of your control. Eating well, keeping active and maintaining a healthy weight gain are all good in themselves, but you can't really prevent yourself getting GD.

I’ve got a problem with the test as I know it has orange in it. I’m very allergic to oranges!
Midwife is trying to find out if they can do the test without the drink test.

@Em39ma I've been diagnosed twice with GD from fasting blood tests. I've never had the drink test.

Thanks for al the replies guys I'm really quite concerned now, I've ate relatively well but I've had the occasional takeaway etc but I'll be sure to monitor what I eat and be strict with myself

I had GD and managed it with diet and exercise, it turned out to be really positive because I was in better shape giving birth than before I got pregnant. I don't think you can prevent yourself from developing it if you have certain risk factors though. I'm in no way sure of that mind you.

@bunnybaubles
That’s good to know. I’m overweight, and 40 so know I’m at more risk.
Unfortunately the weight went on after having a miscarriage last year, but losing weight at the moment as so sick.

@melissa1215 I'm currently 9 weeks pregnant and in the 'transition' stage for diabetes 😂 which basically means I'm converting my diet back to how it was when I was pregnant with my DD! They are testing me for it this time at 16 weeks but the midwife said to try and start eating healthy when the placenta takes over so 10-12 weeks!! You will be fine just don't have sugar and low carb meals/ snack!! Drink lots of water and gentle exercise! If you do have it, it really isn't the end of the world most people can control it with diet xx

@HJWT it's reassuring to know I can control it with diet and exercise! It's so scary, so many things to worry about when pregnant 😂

@melissa1215 I know the only good thing is every other pregnant lady will put weight on and we might lose a few pounds 😂