Women who are able to effectively manage their gestational diabetes and keep blood glucose levels in a safe range dramatically reduce the risk of complications for both themselves and their baby.
The potential complications of uncontrolled gestational diabetes include:
For Mother
Hypertension. High blood glucose levels can cause high blood pressure.
Preeclampsia. If high blood pressure becomes severe, preeclampsia may develop. Other signs of preeclampsia include protein in the urine and severe edema (or swelling). The only treatment for preeclampsia is delivery of the baby, which may mean a premature birth.
Increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes
For Baby
Macrosomia. The fetus stores excess glucose as fat, so in cases of uncontrolled GDM, a baby may be larger than normal at birth, a condition called macrosomnia. Large babies may be more difficult to deliver vaginally, and birth injury is a risk. A cesarean section may also be required.
Hypoglycemia. Before birth, the fetus is producing high levels of insulin to combat high maternal blood glucose levels. When the baby is born, he or she is disconnected from the maternal glucose source, and those high insulin levels can cause his own blood sugars to dip dramatically.
Jaundice. An excessive amount of bilirubin can cause skin and eye yellowing in baby. Jaundice is treated by exposing a newborn to ultraviolet lights.
Low calcium and magnesium. Insufficient levels of calcium and magnesium in the blood can cause muscle cramps and spasms. This condition is easily treated with supplementation.
Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Gestational diabetes can cause fetal lungs to develop more slowly; if inadequate levels of lung surfactant are present at birth an infant could have breathing problems.
Increased risk for childhood and adult obesity. Children who weigh nine or more pounds at birth are at an increased risk for later weight problems.
Increased risk of type 2 diabetes later in life.
If you’re planning a pregnancy, talk to your doctor about your
gestational diabetes risk and how to lower it.
Reviewed by Francine Kaufman, MD. 4/08
