[Your Friendly Guide] Gestational Diabetes: Everything You Need to Know, From Screening to Postpartum Care
A diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) can be a stressful milestone in pregnancy, but it is a manageable condition that is not your fault. This comprehensive guide explains the biological role of placental hormones in creating insulin resistance and details the standard U.S. two-step screening process (GCT and OGTT) conducted between weeks 24 and 28. Mothers will find a practical action plan focused on Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT), blood glucose monitoring, and the importance of post-meal activity. The article also highlights crucial postpartum care, including the 4–12 week follow-up screening to mitigate the long-term risk of Type 2 Diabetes.