Gestational diabetes mellitus is defined as a condition that occurs during pregnancy and is characterized by glucose intolerance that is first recognized during gestation. Risk factors for this condition include obesity, diabetes, poor dietary habits, and sedentary lifestyles. During pregnancy, changes occur in the metabolism of carbohydrates that can lead to a decrease in fasting blood glucose levels and an increase in postprandial levels due to changes in insulin. Ethnicity and race may also influence the development of gestational diabetes. Diagnosis is made based on several criteria, and treatment is aimed at maintaining blood glucose levels within normal parameters through dietary therapy and, in some cases, insulin therapy. Factors related to obesity, diabetes, and sedentary lifestyles can affect the development of gestational diabetes due to insulin resistance.
During the gestational process, different changes occur in women to create a suitable environment for embryonic development. Metabolism of carbohydrates changes during the first few weeks of gestation, resulting in a decrease in fasting glucose levels and an increase in postprandial levels due to changes in insulin derived from maternal tissues. Genetic components and exposure to risk factors may contribute to the development of gestational diabetes.
The first prenatal visit includes tests that evaluate several criteria to diagnose gestational diabetes. Fasting glucose levels should be between 92 and 126 mg/dL, and glycated hemoglobin should be less than 6.5%. If not, gestational diabetes may be diagnosed. Treatment options include dietary therapy, which involves avoiding large meals and carbohydrate-rich foods, and insulin therapy, which is added only if it does not affect the patient's lifestyle.
In conclusion, various factors related to obesity, diabetes, and sedentary lifestyles affect the physiological and pathological changes of gestational diabetes due to insulin resistance. The key to managing gestational diabetes is maintaining blood glucose levels within normal parameters.
