Maternity Care for Gestational Diabetes in Northern California

Even women without a history of diabetes can develop diabetes in pregnancy. Also known as gestational diabetes, women with this maternal condition have higher than normal blood sugar during pregnancy. Gestational diabetes is of concern because it increases the risk of pregnancy complications for the mother and baby. 

With good prenatal care, appropriate treatment, and self-care measures, Dignity Health North State can increase your chances of a healthy pregnancy and birth. 

For skilled treatment of gestational diabetes in Northern California, use our Find a Doctor tool to meet with an experienced obstetrician at:

 

Causes of Gestational Diabetes

Insulin is a hormone the body makes to keep our blood sugar (glucose) levels in a healthy range. When you are pregnant, your body needs more insulin. You develop gestational diabetes when your body does not make enough insulin, causing a rise in blood sugar levels. 

Risk factors for diabetes during pregnancy include:

  • Overweight and obesity
  • History of prediabetes or gestational diabetes, or family history of diabetes
  • Previous delivery of a baby weighing more than nine pounds
  • Hispanic, African American, Native American, Asian American, or Pacific Islander ethnicity

 

Gestational Diabetes Testing 

High blood sugar and diabetes during pregnancy does not cause noticeable symptoms. For this reason, our doctors routinely screen women for gestational diabetes between the 24th and 28th week of pregnancy. If additional gestational diabetes tests confirm the diagnosis, your doctor will explain your treatment options and our team will work with you to make them successful.

 

Gestational Diabetes Treatment at Dignity Health North State

Doctors consider diabetes during pregnancy a high-risk pregnancy. It can cause preterm birth, difficult delivery, and poor health for the baby at birth. To reduce the risk of gestational diabetes complications, your doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan to keep your blood sugar level within a normal range and reduce your risk of complications. 

We focus on the following treatments:

  • Consultation with diabetes educators and nutritionists to help implement any necessary dietary changes 
  • Increased physical activity, which helps your body use insulin
  • Medication to control blood sugar levels

In addition to looking forward to meeting your healthy and happy baby, you can expect your gestational diabetes to go away after birth. However, your doctor will likely want to screen you for diabetes. 

Contact us for more on our comprehensive maternity services and online prenatal classes.

Dignity Health North State offers excellent maternity services for women with gestational diabetes in Mt. Shasta, Red Bluff, and Redding, CA.