Gestational diabetes is diabetes diagnosed for the first time during pregnancy (gestation). Like other types of diabetes, gestational diabetes affects how your cells use sugar (glucose). Gestational diabetes causes high blood sugar that can affect your pregnancy and the health of your baby. While any pregnancy complication is concerning, there is good news. During pregnancy you can help control gestational diabetes by eating healthy foods, exercising and, if necessary, taking medication.

Controlling blood sugar can keep you and your baby healthy and prevent a difficult delivery. If you have gestational diabetes during pregnancy, generally your blood sugar returns to its usual level soon after delivery. But if you have had gestational diabetes, you have a higher risk of getting type 2 diabetes. If possible, seek health care early when you first think about trying to get pregnant so your health care provider can check your risk of gestational diabetes along with your overall wellness.