Lifestyle change is the primary treatment for gestational diabetes.[1] This involves medical nutrition therapy (an individualized diet plan), regular physical activity, and (if appropriate) weight management counseling. Blood glucose is monitored throughout the implementation of these interventions. If lifestyle changes alone do not adequately control blood glucose or there are signs of abnormal fetal growth, insulin may be prescribed to help lower blood glucose to achieve target ranges.[1] Other drugs (e.g., metformin and sulfonylureas) are sometimes used, but more evidence is needed to fully understand their safety for the fetus (because these medications can cross through the placenta).[2][1]
References
- ^, , Draznin B, Aroda VR, Bakris G, Benson G, Brown FM, Freeman R, Green J, Huang E, Isaacs D, Kahan S, Leon J, Lyons SK, Peters AL, Prahalad P, Reusch JEB, Young-Hyman D, Das S, Kosiborod M15. Management of Diabetes in Pregnancy: Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes-2022.Diabetes Care.(2022-Jan-01)
- ^Brown J, Grzeskowiak L, Williamson K, Downie MR, Crowther CAInsulin for the treatment of women with gestational diabetes.Cochrane Database Syst Rev.(2017-Nov-05)