Treatment of gestational diabetes at OpenMed Warsaw
Gestational diabetes is a disorder of carbohydrate metabolism that appears for the first time during pregnancy. Although in most women it does not cause obvious symptoms, it requires appropriate monitoring and treatment, because it affects both the health of the mother-to-be and the developing baby. If you have been diagnosed with gestational diabetes or your glucose tolerance test result is unclear, we invite you to OpenMed in Warsaw (Wola). Our specialists help you through the entire process of diagnosis, treatment and pregnancy monitoring, providing support at every stage.
Gestational diabetes develops when the body is unable to maintain a normal blood glucose level under conditions of increased insulin demand. During pregnancy the placenta produces hormones that reduce the sensitivity of tissues to insulin. In some women the pancreas cannot keep up with producing the right amount of this hormone, which leads to a rise in blood glucose levels.
Gestational diabetes - causes and risk factors
Gestational diabetes can occur in any woman, but the risk of developing it increases in certain situations. The factors that matter include overweight or obesity before pregnancy, a family history of diabetes, a previous diagnosis of gestational diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome and age over 35. This does not mean, however, that the problem only affects women in risk groups. That is why screening tests are performed routinely in all pregnant women.
Diabetology specialists at OpenMed
Book a diabetology consultation for diabetes diagnosis, metabolic assessment, and long-term treatment support.
Symptoms of gestational diabetes
In most cases gestational diabetes does not cause characteristic symptoms and is detected during mandatory check-ups. Occasionally increased thirst, more frequent urination, greater fatigue or recurrent intimate infections may appear. These symptoms are, however, not very specific and can often be confused with the natural changes occurring in a woman's body during pregnancy.
For this reason the basic method of diagnosis remains the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), usually performed between the 24th and 28th week of pregnancy, or earlier if there are medical indications.
Diagnosis of gestational diabetes at OpenMed
The basis for diagnosis is the assessment of laboratory test results. Our doctors analyse fasting glucose results and the glucose tolerance test, and then assess the individual risk of complications. The consultation also covers the course of the pregnancy so far, diet, physical activity and any coexisting conditions.
If gestational diabetes is diagnosed, the patient receives detailed recommendations on glycaemic self-monitoring and further management. The aim is to maintain a normal blood sugar level and ensure optimal conditions for the baby's development.
What does the treatment of gestational diabetes look like?
Treatment of gestational diabetes is based primarily on lifestyle changes and regular glycaemic monitoring. In many cases an appropriately balanced diet and physical activity adapted to pregnancy make it possible to achieve normal results without the need for medication. Our specialists help you understand the principles of nutrition and teach the correct interpretation of glucose measurements.
Therapeutic management may include:
- individually selected dietary recommendations,
- regular self-monitoring of blood glucose levels,
- monitoring of fetal development and the course of pregnancy,
- if necessary, the introduction of insulin therapy under strict medical supervision.
Insulin is used when, despite following dietary recommendations, normal glycaemic values cannot be achieved. Our doctors discuss the treatment in detail and answer questions about the safety of the therapy.
Postpartum care
In most women glucose levels return to normal after the end of pregnancy. Having had gestational diabetes does, however, increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future. That is why follow-up tests after delivery and maintaining healthy eating habits and physical activity are important.
At OpenMed we provide comprehensive care for women with gestational diabetes, supporting them both during pregnancy and after the baby is born.
Gestational diabetes treatment - FAQ
No. For many women an appropriate diet, physical activity and regular glucose monitoring are enough.
Untreated, it can increase the risk of pregnancy complications, which is why early diagnosis and proper treatment are so important.
Most often between the 24th and 28th week of pregnancy, unless the doctor recommends performing the test earlier.
In most cases yes, but women who have had gestational diabetes should regularly monitor their glucose levels even after the pregnancy ends.
Most often the condition gives no clear symptoms and is detected during routine tests performed during pregnancy.