Q: What are the risks of diabetes during pregnancy? ~ Lily, 25, Canada

Here is the answer from Dr. Jill Hamilton, Staff Endocrinologist in Endocrinology at SickKids, Associate Scientist in Physiology & Experimental Medicine at the SickKids Research Institute and Associate Professor in the Department of Paediatrics at the University of Toronto.

A: “About 1 to 3 per cent of pregnant women develop diabetes during pregnancy. This is also known as “gestational diabetes”. Most women with gestational diabetes develop it because they cannot produce enough insulin, a hormone important for blood sugar control. High blood sugar levels can be unhealthy for both mom and the baby. If the diabetes isn't treated, the baby may be more likely to have certain problems at birth. For example, the baby may have a low blood sugar level, low calcium level, jaundice, or may weigh much more than normal.

Gestational diabetes can also affect the mother’s health.  If the baby is very large, there is a greater chance of having a difficult delivery or needing a cesarean section (C-section). Gestational diabetes also increases mom’s risk of developing preeclampsia (high blood pressure, swelling and protein in the urine).

Fortunately, the risk of complications during pregnancy can be reduced by controlling the level of sugar in the blood. This is done by following a diet suggested by the doctor or dietitian, exercise regularly and checking blood sugars at home with a small device called a glucometer. Sometimes medicine, such as insulin, is needed to control the blood sugar level.

After delivery, gestational diabetes usually disappears, however, women who have gestational diabetes are at greater risk for diabetes with future pregnancies and for type 2 diabetes later in life.  Babies who are born to mothers with gestational diabetes may be at increased risk for obesity and diabetes as they get older.”

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