About 5 percent of pregnant women are affected by gestational diabetes, a disease that only occurs during pregnancy and is characterized by high blood sugar levels. Women who have a family history of diabetes, are overweight, or have had gestational diabetes in the past are at a higher risk for developing gestational diabetes. Treatment for the disease should consist of a specific meal plan, physical activity, and insulin (if needed). If left untreated, gestational diabetes could lead to health problems for the mother and fetus.
(Click Gestational Diabetes to find out why gestational diabetes occurs, what you can do to control your blood glucose levels, and who is at a higher risk for developing the condition. You can also click on the various links in the box to the right to access specific topics on gestational diabetes.)
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