Gestational diabetes: it's not your fault

Receiving a gestational diabetes diagnosis can be unexpected and bring up many emotions. It is normal to feel worried, sad or even guilty. But there is an important message we would like you to take with you: most of the time, this diagnosis does not mean you did anything wrong.

During pregnancy, the placenta produces hormones that help the baby grow, but which also make the action of insulin less effective. To compensate, the mother's body needs to produce more insulin. When this does not happen in sufficient amounts, blood sugar levels rise and gestational diabetes can develop.

There are factors that increase the likelihood of this diagnosis, such as having had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy, a twin pregnancy, having had several children, a family history of diabetes, being overweight or having an inactive lifestyle. However, many women with healthy lifestyle habits and no known risk factors also develop gestational diabetes.

The good news is that, when gestational diabetes is identified and managed, it is possible to significantly reduce the risks for mother and baby. A balanced diet, physical activity suitable for pregnancy, monitoring blood glucose levels and more frequent check-ups with the healthcare team help the vast majority of pregnancies to progress safely.

If you have received this diagnosis, you are not alone. Talk about your questions, share your worries and ask for help whenever you need it. With the right support and following the recommended care, most women have a healthy pregnancy and healthy babies.