Hearing you have gestational diabetes can feel overwhelming, but you aren't alone. GDM is one of the most common pregnancy complications, affecting up to 10 percent of pregnancies.
Gestational diabetes is very treatable, and most people who have it give birth to perfectly healthy babies. A combination of diet, exercise, and insulin are the go-to treatments for GDM, but sometimes Metformin is also used to stabilize blood sugar levels.
Let's take a closer look at Metformin and when it can help.
What is gestational diabetes?
Gestational diabetes (GDM) is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. It's high blood sugar that's only diagnosed during pregnancy for people without a previous diagnosis of diabetes. It usually goes away after the baby is born, but a GDM diagnosis does increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
During pregnancy, the placenta provides the unborn baby with nutrients and hormones to help it grow. Sometimes these hormones can interfere with insulin, a hormone that controls the sugar level in your blood, so blood sugar gets too high.
High blood sugar in pregnancy that isn't treated can lead to problems like:
- Macrosomia (large baby at birth, making delivery harder)
- Preterm labor (which can cause breathing problems in the newborn)
- Preeclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy)
- Low blood sugar for the baby
How is gestational diabetes treated?
Diet and exercise changes are often enough to keep blood sugar levels in a healthy range, but sometimes medication is needed as well.
Many oral medications aren't safe for pregnancy, so insulin injections are also used. Insulin injections help lower blood sugar by giving your body the insulin it needs to use glucose for energy.
Is it safe to take Metformin when you are pregnant?
Metformin is an oral medication generally considered safe during pregnancy, although it’s always best to discuss with your OB-GYN. Metformin works by helping your body respond better to insulin and lower the amount of sugar your liver makes.
During pregnancy, blood sugar goals are very specific and lower than for people with type 2 diabetes. Insulin is often needed to get to these targets quickly to keep mom and baby safe and healthy. Metformin may be used along with insulin, or occasionally on its own in mild cases of GDM.
Every pregnancy journey is different and unique, so you and your OB-GYN will decide what medication and treatment plan is best for your body.
What is the best diet for gestational diabetes?
The best diet for gestational diabetes is individualized to you. It's helpful to work with a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) to help with your diet.
Here are some general eating tips to consider:
- Eat regularly spaced meals and snacks.
- Use the plate method and fill a half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables, a quarter with whole grain carbs, and another quarter with protein-rich foods.
- Limit sugary drinks and sweets.
- Add protein like chicken, fish, tofu, or eggs to every meal.
Metformin, a balanced diet and exercise can support a healthy pregnancy
Metformin is a medication typically used to treat type 2 diabetes. It can be used in pregnancy for gestational diabetes, but insulin remains the most effective way to meet blood sugar targets.
9amHealth current doesn't offer treatement for patients with GDM at this time unless you have been diagnosed with diabetes before your pregnancy. Your OB-GYN will work closely with you to support your pregnancy. Contact our Support via Chat to learn more.
