Understanding Gestational Diabetes During Pregnancy

When you have gestational diabetes, it means your blood sugar is higher than usual during pregnancy.

You might not notice any symptoms. Or, sometimes, the signs you do notice—like feeling extra thirsty or tired—are things many pregnant people experience anyway. That's why your doctor will test you 24-28 weeks into your pregnancy to know for sure.

Who's at Higher Risk?

Anyone can develop gestational diabetes. You're at higher risk if you:

Have had gestational diabetes before
Have family members with Type 2 diabetes
Have a history of high blood pressure
Are overweight or have gained more weight than expected during pregnancy
Are Black, Asian, American Indian, Hispanic, or Latino

Why It Matters

When gestational diabetes isn't managed, it can affect you and your baby.

You may:

Give birth to a larger baby
Experience a sudden spike in blood pressure
Develop Type 2 diabetes later

Your baby may:

Have low blood sugar at birth
Face breathing difficulties
Have a higher chance of obesity and Type 2 diabetes as they grow

What You Can Do If Diagnosed

During pregnancy:

Connect with your care team.
Your health care provider and WIC nutritionist can help you create a nutrition plan that works for you.
Choose foods that work for you.
High-fiber foods like whole grains, vegetables, and fruit help keep your blood sugar steady. When you want something sweet, reach for fresh fruit or yogurt instead of candy, cake, or jelly.
Check your blood sugar regularly.
Your body's energy needs shift during pregnancy, so your blood sugar can change quickly.
Keep moving.
Activities like walking can help lower your blood sugar. Ask your doctor what's safe and talk about what feels good for you.

After your baby is born:

Gestational diabetes usually goes away after you give birth. But it can come back during future pregnancies. Your doctor may check your blood sugar to make sure Type 2 diabetes doesn't develop.

How to lower your risk:

Stay active. Aim for about 150 minutes of movement each week, like a 30-minute walk, 5 days a week.
Think about breastfeeding your baby. It can help keep both of you healthy and may lower your chance of diabetes when you’re older.

WIC is here to support you every step of the way.