Gestational Diabetes

[KaliahsMommy]

Surprisingly, APA doesn't have a Gestational Diabetes group... anyone here dealing with this...??? Maybe we can request a group to be started for it...?

[paula0471]

Yep.. I'm dealing with GD.. Found out at 14 weeks. On Glyburide twice a day and have to monitor 4 times a day.

I guess they figure we will all come to high risk.. maybe they should do a sub-forum here in High risk..

[DeeDee]

I agree we need our own forum...

Dx with GD during wk 28, started long-lasting insulin 2x daily during wk 29.

Now just counting down days while trying to choke down foods I don't really care for. lol

[_sarah_]

That's a great idea! I'm on insulin (long and short, 4 shots a day) as of Friday.

[DeeDee]

Sarah, bless your heart. I can barely handle the 2x daily I have to do!

I'm doing everything I can to stay off the short because I've just gotten comfortable with the long lasting. lol

[Allie1980]

I didn't have GD last time, but am always aware of it.... My family has a high number of diabetics (although I am not).....so I'm "predisposed to it"..... Will see what happens in future pregnancies.

Has anyone ever done the South Beach Diet? Or Atkins? (obviously not while you're preggers).

Take care, ladies!

[paula0471]

I didn't have GD last time, but am always aware of it.... My family has a high number of diabetics (although I am not).....so I'm "predisposed to it"..... Will see what happens in future pregnancies.

Has anyone ever done the South Beach Diet? Or Atkins? (obviously not while you're preggers).

Take care, ladies!

I didn't have a diabetes problem before this pregnancy or with my last. I was Hypo before.. Sugar was always really low all my life. I have tried low calorie diets.. but over the years couldn't cut out the carbs because of the hypo. Of course now that I have GD.. I have to count carbs 4 for breakfast, 4 for lunch, 4 for supper and 2 for each snack three times a day. I'm on a point system with carbs now. Which is really a lot of carbs.
Even though your family has lots of diabetes, does mean you may have it sometime in life.. but the type you get with pregnancy is caused by the plecenta and doesn't normally have anything to do with family history. You can have it with one pregnancy and never have it again with any of your other pregnancies. It also usually goes away after you have given birth.

[DeeDee]

I'm on 30 carbs for bfast, 60-75 carbs for lunch and dinner, and 2 snacks daily at 30 carbs each.

Frankly, I find it difficult to eat all of those carbs but fear not doing it because of insulin.

Anyone else struggle with eating all the carbs?

[_sarah_]

Oh no, eating the carbs is easy for me! I crave them. :) It's the protein I sometimes have a hard time with. I'm on 45 carbs for breakfast and 3 snacks, 60 for lunch and dinner. I've got a really high calorie target (like, 3000) due to the triplets. I've been on insulin since the weekend. My snack this afternoon was a piece of whole wheat toast, peanut butter, half a banana, and a cup of milk. 45 carbs there easily!

[KaliahsMommy]

Well I recently was put on 8 units of insulin before dinner every night. I honestly don't think it is enough, because I have to eat an incredibly LIGHT dinner in order to stay under 120 at 2 hours later. If I eat anything like I would for lunch, for some reason, it is sky high after dinner. Even if I get on the treadmill after dinner and purposely stay active.

I'm looking for people who have had babies before with GD and can tell me how things turned out...? I'm trying so hard to eat the right things, as I have my C Section scheduled for Dec 22 and should be discharged by Christmas Eve and OH I would just be devastated if my Little One had to stay in the hospital during Christmas because of a mistake I made!!!

[DeeDee]

I've done so much reading on this topic that my eyes have started to cross from it. :laugh:

But from everything I read, as long as the GD is controlled, the problems that could arise are minimal.

Are you doing a c/s because of the GD or for another reason? That's the one area I can't seem to get a good reading on is whether my doc will want to a c/s or induction due to GD. (I guess I should just ask him, but I'm afraid of the answer!)

[DucksLikeRain]

Ladies, this entire room is devoted to conditions and situations that cause you to be high risk during your pregnancy. This includes Gestational Diabetes.

We are not going to create another room for Gestational Diabetes because it does fall directly under the realm of this room. But I am going to sticky this thread so that it will stay up at the top for you ladies to share your struggles, support and advice in. :silly:

Good luck in your pregnancies.

[KaliahsMommy]

I am having C Section bc I was diagnosed with CephaloPelvic Distortion (baby wont fit thru my pelvic area) with my first daughter. But I have heard they do the CS if baby is too big...based on sonogram predictions. I have a sono today... can't wait to hear how things are going in there.


I've done so much reading on this topic that my eyes have started to cross from it. :laugh:

But from everything I read, as long as the GD is controlled, the problems that could arise are minimal.

Are you doing a c/s because of the GD or for another reason? That's the one area I can't seem to get a good reading on is whether my doc will want to a c/s or induction due to GD. (I guess I should just ask him, but I'm afraid of the answer!)

[DeeDee]

Thanks for your reply. I knew they did it if they were too big, but I'm finding some stories of where they seem to have done it just because of GD too. :ohno::ohno:

Let us know how the sono goes. I have one Wednesday. Last time, she was only measuring in the 67th percentile. So not too large and hopefully not getting any larger (other than normal growth). lol

[KaliahsMommy]

I just had my Sono and sure enough... baby has grown ALOT in just 2 weeks! She went from being just over 4 lbs, to being almost 6. And I still have 4 weeks. OMG And dr. said no way are we doing an earlier delivery ...

[twinmom34]

I had GD with the twins and the best advice I rec'd was from my endocrinologist about the absolute importance of losing weight after the babies were born or I could count on having diabetes for life. So good luck ladies and remember to lose the weight after you have your babies. (P.S. those last 10# of mine have made a forever home I can't get rid of :))

[paula0471]

I will have a scheduled C-Section.. but not because of the GD.. my first child which I had 17 years ago.. was a c-section and I didn't dialate over a 3.. So my doctor said the safest thing for both the baby and I is a c-section. A lot of doctors will not do a VBAC after a section if you have not had a successful natural birth.

Now as far as the risk of GD causing you to get a C-section.. the only risk is size of baby.. some doctors feel safer doing a c-section if the baby is thought to be to big for you to give natural birth too.. another thing that might make them do a early c-section is if your sugar can't seem to be controlled and if you develop Pre-E as well.. but if the baby is of normal size.. they will try induction before moving directly to c-section.

Good luck girls!

[bdamposey]

Hi everyone,

I was Dx w/GD at 25 weeks. Ive was instructed to check my blood sugear 4x a day (fasting, and 2 hrs after bfast, lunch & dinner). My levels have been alright. There have been maybe 3-5 times that my levels were elevated, but it has appeared to be based on what I had eaten and if I havent exercised. And Ive noticed on the days that I have walked, my levels have been in the okay range. So it seems that my glucose levels can be controlled by diet and exercise.

I was supposed to have an appointment with my same Dr., but we were in the process of moving to another city the week I was Dx'd. And I have been refered to a Dr in my new city, but they have barely set me up with an appt for next wed the 26th. Im so worried that I might be doing something wrong because Im not on any meds (insulin). I guess my question is, is there anyone here with gd that is controlling there glucose levels just with diet and exercise? And for those on you on meds, were you put on them right away?

With my 1st pregnancy, I guess I was "borderline" but that my glucose levels were barely in the "okay" range. But this time I wasnt as fortunateIm just so anxious about this whole GD thing! When I was Dx'd, I cried. There was so many emotions and I felt like I was a horrible mom! UGH! Even though I would never wish this upon anyone...its nice to know that there are others I can chat with who might have an insight or advice! Thanks to anyone who responds!

[_sarah_]

Hi bdamposey! You can *definitely* control GD through diet and exercise alone. If that's what your doing, and you sugars are in the normal range, then I'd say you're doing fine! My problem is that I've got 3 placentas, and my body just can't keep up. On top of that, I've been restricted from exercising since 6 weeks. :) And yes, I cried and cried and cried. And I still cry when I have to prick my own finger!

Definitely talk to your dr next week, but if you're following the diet and checking your sugars, you are definitely on the right track!

[DeeDee]

bpamposey, it might sound horrible to say, but welcome to the group! :hi:

I am on insulin, but I never really had a shot at controlling with diet (exercise is out for me as I'm on bedrest). I was dx mid-week 29, given NO info just a monitor and sheets to keep track, saw a dietician on the day I turned 30 weeks and was put on insulin at 30w1d. So I've always wondered if I could have controlled with diet - guess I'll never know. lol But I see so many that do and I'm so envious.

I know exactly what you're talking about when you speak of the emotions associated with dx. For the first few days, I thought I would never pull out of the depression I was in. I swore to my DH that I was going to need antidepressants. It's like I was a 24 hour cry-fest! :laugh: And my poor boys (16, 12, 4), would just look at me completely lost...not sure what to do or say. My 12 year old still says frequently, "I feel sorry for you, Mom." Usually it's said as he's holding his 4th slice of pizza - doesn't seem to get that Mom had two and that's good enough. lol

Hopefully you'll be able to control it with diet and exercise. But if you do have to do insulin, it's not so bad. As a matter of fact, pricking your finger 4x day is worse!

[bdamposey]

Good to know ladies! I cant wait for my appt to see what is decided! Im so anxious and nervous. I try not to think about it!

[ljs318]

Hi GD ladies! I just wanted to pop on and say GL to all of you. I was diagnosed with GD with my daughter and luckily was able to control it with diet. I have a history of preterm labor so exercise was out. There are lots foods that sent my numbers high and once I learned to avoid those it was OK. Most "white" foods... like regular pasta, white bread, potatoes would send me high. Those 100 calorie pack snacks were good too. Some of them have just 15g of carbs (my snack limit) and would help my sweet tooth. GL!

[Minismommy]

Hi everyone,

I was Dx w/GD at 25 weeks. Ive was instructed to check my blood sugear 4x a day (fasting, and 2 hrs after bfast, lunch & dinner). My levels have been alright. There have been maybe 3-5 times that my levels were elevated, but it has appeared to be based on what I had eaten and if I havent exercised. And Ive noticed on the days that I have walked, my levels have been in the okay range. So it seems that my glucose levels can be controlled by diet and exercise.

I was supposed to have an appointment with my same Dr., but we were in the process of moving to another city the week I was Dx'd. And I have been refered to a Dr in my new city, but they have barely set me up with an appt for next wed the 26th. Im so worried that I might be doing something wrong because Im not on any meds (insulin). I guess my question is, is there anyone here with gd that is controlling there glucose levels just with diet and exercise? And for those on you on meds, were you put on them right away?

With my 1st pregnancy, I guess I was "borderline" but that my glucose levels were barely in the "okay" range. But this time I wasnt as fortunateIm just so anxious about this whole GD thing! When I was Dx'd, I cried. There was so many emotions and I felt like I was a horrible mom! UGH! Even though I would never wish this upon anyone...its nice to know that there are others I can chat with who might have an insight or advice! Thanks to anyone who responds!

Hi,

i am on the same boat, i exercised strict control on my food and exercise routine and also figured out a well balanced protein approach keeps my sugars in control. if i eat the recommended 60 grams of carbs i have to walk for half an hour min to keep sugars below 120, and i do that usually. My docs are OK with this. but i lost 11 pounds in the first 6 months and gained back 5 in the 7th month. As far as your sugars are in control the OB's are fine with it, whether its with exercise is not what bothers them.

[tsha]

I was wondering with the procedure for GD.

Did everyone have the same procedure like mine for Glucose Screening Test? Mine was no preparation or fasting needed and just drink the 50g of Glucose drink. Then after one hour a blood will be drawn.

I don't have history of diabetes in our family. Just articulating the procedure of the test.

Try analyzing this:
4 times a day, I need to prick my finger to monitor blood sugar.
Normal range is
Fasting - 95 mg/dl
2 hours after breakfast - 125 mg/dl
2 hours after lunch - 125 mg/dl
2 hours after dinner - 125 mg/dl

Now looking at the procedure.. Let's say I have eaten lunch.. then after one hour I need to drink 50g of Glucose drink. Then after one hour a blood is to be drawn.

Definitely it will be high! Right?
Normal range of 2 hours after meal is 125 mg/dl. And it wasn't even 2 hours before drinking the 50g Glucose drink. So definitely before drinking the 50g Glucose you already have a sugar level of at least 125 mg/dl (assuming the worst). Then if you drink the 50g Glucose drink, it will definitely be sooo high right? Then knowing it will only be after 1 hour of drinking the 50g that blood is to be drawn. So it can definitely reach 160 or 180++.

Any comments anyone? I was just questioning the procedure that the American Pregnancy Association in determining GD. Saying no fasting is required etc...

--t

[_sarah_]

I didn't do glucola at all. Mine was so high from a random finger prick - 285 - that they had me come back the next day, and did a fasting finger prick (150-something) and then just drew blood from the vein (again, 150 something). So they didn't bother with glucola.

One thing to remember is that different kinds of sugars get metabolized at different rates. Straight glucose vs. a whole grain, for example...

[lizzym]

Sarah-
Way to go on your pregnancy with triplets, btw! I had preterm labor with twins at 22 weeks and went only to 27 weeks-with not the best outcome ever. So I always look at how far along you are and marvel. Good for you!

[Minismommy]

Question for ladies who had High GD diagnosed in third trim or earlier.

please lemme know what happens now? at 33 weeks my GD results are abnormally high, and i am to be on insulin within 48 hrs, so what happens now onwards? pls share your experiences.!!

[KaliahsMommy]

Well I'm going in for my C Section on Monday at 530am. My last sono was yesterday and baby is estimated as 6 lbs, 11oz. I have gained a total of 7 lbs since month 3 (first appt). I think I may have gained maybe 5 or 7more than that in my first 3 months, before even getting to the obgyn. Anyway, my numbers have been PERFECT fasting, PERFECT after breakfast, PERFECT after lunch, and WONDERFUL after dinner. I only take insulin before dinner, but I can recall a time when even with the insulin, my numbers would still be around 130 after dinner. But as of the past week, my numbers have been great! Someone told me that some GD goes away as you near the very end. That just sounds ODD to me lol

Now I am nervous about if it will go away after baby comes out! I am so scared! I am so curious about what kind of gross foods they will have me eat at the hospital for GD. I am nervous about what if my numbers stay high for a while after the baby, or stay high forever. What if I was borderline GD before baby and now I am full blown? I mean, I have not really tried eating bad foods like I used to, and then testing. I'm too afraid. Hey I guess being afraid of bad foods is better than NOT being afraid of bad foods and then eating out of control LOL
Now the hard part is STAYING afraid of bad foods LOL

[_sarah_]

I was hospitalized when they put me on insulin, to figure out my dosages, and they fed me the "diabetic" menu. It was AWFUL! Breakfast was white toast, a bagel, fruit, etc. There wasn't a whole grain or gram of fiber in sight! They said it was because the majority of the people in the hospital on the diabetic menu are older, set in their ways, and don't eat the whole grain stuff. They told me when I come back to pack some of my own food. (Since I'll be there for a c-section also, they said to ask for a room that has a fridge in it, or they'd bring a fridge to my room.)

Good luck! Keep us posted!

[newmami]

Hi ladies, I hope I can give you some insight.
I was diagnosed with GD at 30 weeks, I had to do insuline shots 2x a day and test blood 4x a day... yeah that was fun

I had a scheduled c/s (because of a previous one, GD was with my second baby). I stopped the insuline the day before the c/s. At the hospital they did nothing special for me or at least no one told me... the only thing was keeping an eye on my BP because it was a little high while PG. Anyways, after my DS was born, they took him to the Nursery for observation (they do this to c/s babies AND GD babies) and he came to my room like 4 hrs after he was born (took me like 1.5hrs to recover from the surgery)
After that, I didn't had any diet restrictions besides the normal ones, and my son didn't had any tests done, he stayed in my room the whole time

[MrsH]

Bump

[mjh8406]

Hi!

I am 11 weeks pregnant with my second. This is my second time with GD. I was dx with it with Evie when I was 30 weeks. I am really depressed b/c I only had to do the diet for 10 weeks last time and now I have to do it for 30 WEEKS!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am so sick of pickles, almonds, sugar free jello and cheese!!!!

It is so frustrating b/c I feel like no one understands. Everyone always tells me to just go ahead and cheat on my diet every now and then but they don't understand the guilty feelings that would come with that. I would feel awful if I had more than my 30 or 45g of carbs. I also get so irritated when other pregnant women are so anal about drinking artificial sweetners b/c I feel like at least they have a choice!!!! I wish I could be that careful with what I put in my body but I don't have a choice!

Anyone else going through these angry feelings?

[elsmama]

i was diagnosed at 7 weeks (32 weeks now) so i feel you. but unlike you, i'm a cheater. nothing too crazy, but every once in a while when i crave some chocolate, i have some. i try to have it between my meals so that it won't make my blood sugar too high. and so far it's been fine! so don't beat yourself up if you aren't perfect, no one is.
luckily, the time has passed pretty quickly and the diet really hasn't been all that bad.

and yes, every post i read or when people complain about being scared to fail the test at 28 weeks i just wanna say, stop your whining, it could be so much worse!!!

i just keep reminding myself that when i see our baby, it will all be worth it! i'm sure you already know that since you have a child.

[ReynaBaby]

I was diagnosed at 27 weeks...and i was soooooo depressed and cried for about 2 or 3 weeks feeling sorry for myself and guilty for making the baby pump insulin for me. I have about 2 weeks left in my pregnancy and my sugars are totally in control on diet and some exercise. This has truly changed my life and for the better. It is a HUUUUUUGE PITA to adjust your meals and constantly decide whether you can eat this or that and then wait the two hours to see if it messed up your sugar levels....but honestly, I have never felt better. I'm weighing 162 pounds...that's about 19 pounds total that i've gained in this pregnant...I have more energy now at 38 weeks of pregnancy than i've had my entire pregnancy (i do require like two naps a day though :silly:...but that's because i can't sleep at night from all the peeing trips i make hahahha).


Now, it will be interesting to see what happens after the baby is born! I have requested chocolate cake instead of flowers :shocker: I hope i can somehow stick to my diet!!

[dontbl8]

How is everyone doing?

I am 34 weeks and having a hard time controlling the blood sugar. No more one bite of cookie or a sip or two of soda, because it just sky rockets my blood sugars.

My morning sugars have been over the recommended 90. It is anywhere from 92 to 128.

After meals, I have to take a walk or the levels are over 130 almost every time.

I am so tired, but that is because my daughter, who is four, wakes me up every night. I do know this will affect my Fasting Glucose, but what do you do?

[elsmama]

How is everyone doing?

I am 34 weeks and having a hard time controlling the blood sugar. No more one bite of cookie or a sip or two of soda, because it just sky rockets my blood sugars.

My morning sugars have been over the recommended 90. It is anywhere from 92 to 128.

After meals, I have to take a walk or the levels are over 130 almost every time.

I am so tired, but that is because my daughter, who is four, wakes me up every night. I do know this will affect my Fasting Glucose, but what do you do?

You definitely need to see your doc. He/she will probably put you on meds, probably Glyburide. That's what I take now and mine have been okay.

[AmandaZ]

Hi- New here! I am at 29 weeks and I had my 1st glucose test a week ago. I failed with a 178. My 3 rd glucose tolerance test is Thursday. I hope I pass!

I am addicted to sugar so it serves me right if I fail the 2nd test!

[sailorswife021205]

My sister was diagnosed with GD. She's having a hard time dealing with the diet and cries because she feels so hungry 90% of the time. She thought she was being careful and eating healthy, but she was drinking too much juice and too much milk. She was drinking 1 soda a day because she "read" that that was alright to do. Well, it wasn't alright and now she is on the diet and hating it. I feel so sorry for her, that I told her that I would do the diet with her and I would be her support. The diet, does suck, but it is quite healthy. We are doing good on it and she only has 12 more weeks to go and we can both go back to eating "normally." I feel for you guys, but always remember, it could be worse. I had a friend who had GD and she couldn't control it with diet and was forced to start insulin shots. Her baby was born early and with under developed lungs due to the shots. I'll be :pray: for you girls:hugs:

[dontbl8]

Glyburide - I was put on it yesterday.

[dontbl8]

Yah, that milk and juice will kill your numbers. I am not hungry at all. I am however sick of eggs. It seems that is the only thing I can eat in the morning.


My sister was diagnosed with GD. She's having a hard time dealing with the diet and cries because she feels so hungry 90% of the time. She thought she was being careful and eating healthy, but she was drinking too much juice and too much milk. She was drinking 1 soda a day because she "read" that that was alright to do. Well, it wasn't alright and now she is on the diet and hating it. I feel so sorry for her, that I told her that I would do the diet with her and I would be her support. The diet, does suck, but it is quite healthy. We are doing good on it and she only has 12 more weeks to go and we can both go back to eating "normally." I feel for you guys, but always remember, it could be worse. I had a friend who had GD and she couldn't control it with diet and was forced to start insulin shots. Her baby was born early and with under developed lungs due to the shots. I'll be :pray: for you girls:hugs:

[mjh8406]

My sister was diagnosed with GD. She's having a hard time dealing with the diet and cries because she feels so hungry 90% of the time. She thought she was being careful and eating healthy, but she was drinking too much juice and too much milk. She was drinking 1 soda a day because she "read" that that was alright to do. Well, it wasn't alright and now she is on the diet and hating it. I feel so sorry for her, that I told her that I would do the diet with her and I would be her support. The diet, does suck, but it is quite healthy. We are doing good on it and she only has 12 more weeks to go and we can both go back to eating "normally." I feel for you guys, but always remember, it could be worse. I had a friend who had GD and she couldn't control it with diet and was forced to start insulin shots. Her baby was born early and with under developed lungs due to the shots. I'll be :pray: for you girls:hugs:

:hugs: to your sister. I KNOW exactly what she is crying about....I always feel hungry. One thing that helps me is being on a schedule....eating every three hours. I try to keep myself busy inbetween those times or eat a ton of cheese, pickles, pepperoni, pecans, cheese and salami roll ups, and sugar free jello. I also drink a diet soda or iced tea inbetween meals and it sometimes satisfies my cravings.

[dontbl8]

You should not be hungry on the diet. My OB told me to add more protien and eat every 2 to 3 hours. I can pretty much make up my own meal plan, but he wants me stay withing 2100 calories a day.

I started the Glyburide last Tuesday. Wednesday and Thursday my FG (fasting glucose) were below 90, but all of my after meal GL (glucose levels) were really high, above 140. So I stopped taking it and now my GL are within range and my FG is high. I do not want to take the pill because it is still to new. You have to stop taking it two weeks before a surgury and atleast two weeks before you start to breastfeed. What happens if I have the baby early. That bugs me, so it looks like I will probably end up getting the shots.

[aerynsage]

I was wondering with the procedure for GD.

Did everyone have the same procedure like mine for Glucose Screening Test? Mine was no preparation or fasting needed and just drink the 50g of Glucose drink. Then after one hour a blood will be drawn.
--t

Hmmmm, that's interesting. In both my pregnancies I had to fast 12 hours before my glucola, that was only the 50mg. This time though I didn't pass my glucola, probably because I ate about 30 minutes before the test, and even drank water. Didn't think that would affect it, but it did. So I had to take the 3 hour test, again no eating or drinking 12 hours prior. Boy was I starving after!! To get an accurate reading it makes sense to fast before a glucola test.

Diabetes doesn't run in my family either, but it could in your husband's. Though I think you have a good chance of not having it.

[kelntrav]

hey dontbl8-- where did you read/hear about the glyburide? i think that i will have to start taking it soon..just curious!

[dontbl8]

It is on the package that came with the prescription under the warnings.

I am now taking the insulin shots. I am so anti-needle, but the anticipation in much worse than the shot. To be honest, pricking my finger hurts more than the shot.

[kelntrav]

dontbl8- i just started taking the meds and saw where it said that. i am going to talk to my dr. on monday about it. for the weekend i will take it because it is keeping my numbers normal. i did ivf to get preggo so i am used to shots, so if that is safer for baby, i am all for it. thanks!

[sailorswife021205]

Well, my sister has GD and now I have it too. ****, she was lucky to only go 12 weeks, I have 25 weeks of this. The diet isn't a big deal, it's just the planning that sucks for me. I'm not hungry 80% of the time, so I have to force myself to eat because I need to to maintain healthy levels. I have an OB appt. on Thursday to schedule my 3 hour glucose, but my levels are quite elevated, so they are sure that the 3 hour test is unnecessary. I should be about 135 and I am at 171. :headbang: I am starting the diet to maintain my normal life because I have been dizzy and faint for a few days and I have trouble with thinking straight, so I was told to start the diet and will be seen on Thursday, and more than likely, every 2 weeks after that.:pokey:

[soybean]

I also have GD. I was tested at 14 weeks and since I was already borderline I started the low carb diet. At about 26 weeks I noticed that I was not able to keep my bs below the cutoff even with diet and exercise, so Dr. put me on 2.5mg of glyburide at night. This has helped my blood sugars but I am noticing an increase again, so I fear that they may put me on insulin for the remainder of the pregancy (I am now about 34weeks). Usually as the placenta grows your blood sugars increase. So the earlier you find out, the more likely you will have to use some type of meds along with diet and exercise. On the plus side, I have only gained 8 pounds due to the carb restriction so I wont have anything to lose except for the 20 pounds extra I started with. We can have normal sized healthy babies so long as we follow the rules. Take care ladies.

[penguin89]

Hi Soybean, I'm glad to see someone posting in the gestational diabetes thread that is recent. I was diagnosed at 18 weeks with my twins, but they didn't bother about it because I was already having so many complications they thought I'd give birth any day (held out till 24 weeks).

This time, I asked to be tested early again and my sugar was at 220 after the 1 hr screening! I gather they get concerned if it's at 140 or above?

I'm meeting with the dietician on Tuesday but have been reading a lot and following what seems the standard diet.

Here's my worry: I started off too skinny (BMi about 19) which is a risk factor for preterm labor (which I'm prone to) and I haven't put on any weight since I started this low carb regimen. Plus, the diet is actually not THAT different from my normal diet. Add to that that I'm not allowed to exercise - can barely leave the house - due to the PTL risk, and I wonder if diet is really going to help me?

I guess I'll end up in insulin? I don't know how I can nourish this baby otherwise, too.

Can you tell me about the glyburide? What's the deal with that? Why prefer it to insulin?

Thanks for any information or coaching!

[le24janvier]

I just failed my 1 hour screening with 145. Diabetes runs in my family and my mother had GD when she was pregnant with me. I was supposed to take the 3 hour Thursday. I started the test at the clinic around the corner from the hospital I'm temping at, and stupid me tried to be Superwoman, thinking I could work and come back every hour for the screening. Not 5 minutes after I got back to my desk did I throw up EVERYTHING and ended up in the ER. Thank goodness I was in the hospital. So I have to take the test again. After I threw up my level was 132, still high but the nurse expressed optimism that I will pass this test. I will schedule it tomorrow.

[penguin89]

Good luck January 24th! 145 isn't too bad. It's only a hair above the cut off so I'm hopeful for you. My family has lots of diabetes too, which is I guess why I've got it despite having no other risk factors.

Let us know how it goes.

[penguin89]

Does anybody know if it's weird that my sugar is sometime WAY out of whack and sometimes totally normal? I've started testing it and it seems that sometimes I have my alotted carbs with no problem and other times my sugar is sky high two hours later.

Anyone?

[ljs318]

Does anybody know if it's weird that my sugar is sometime WAY out of whack and sometimes totally normal? I've started testing it and it seems that sometimes I have my alotted carbs with no problem and other times my sugar is sky high two hours later.

Anyone?

Does it depends on WHAT type of carbs you are eating? I don't have GD this time, but with DD if I ate any "white" carbs like white bread, white potatoes, white pasta, etc... even with the allotted amount I would go high. But with whole wheat carbs in the same amount I would be fine. Just a thought.

[cheysum]

Does anybody know if it's weird that my sugar is sometime WAY out of whack and sometimes totally normal? I've started testing it and it seems that sometimes I have my alotted carbs with no problem and other times my sugar is sky high two hours later.

Anyone?

Its not weird at all. I've been trying to figure this out since I was about 16 weeks. Its very frustrating.

One thing I've noticed is that if I eat too much fat with the carbs, it messes with my sugars. For example, if I have a sandwich with mustard on it, my sugar will be ok. If i have the same sandwich with mayo, my sugars will be sky high.

I feel your pain. Its definitely an uphill battle for me!
Good Luck!

[cheysum]

Does it depends on WHAT type of carbs you are eating? I don't have GD this time, but with DD if I ate any "white" carbs like white bread, white potatoes, white pasta, etc... even with the allotted amount I would go high. But with whole wheat carbs in the same amount I would be fine. Just a thought.

Ditto

[penguin89]

Thanks guys. I will keep an eye on that. Sounds like a plausible explanation to me!

[Rachel2009]

I just want to wish everyone luck with GD.

[ClarisseMarie]

I must ask, how do you ladies limit your carbs and still get enough to eat?? I'm sitting here looking over my menu, and everything is about 2-3 carbs, but for lunch, I only get 3-4 and for dinner I only get 4. So that basically puts me at a sandwich and 1 side and I can't have anything else! It doesn't help that options are limited by the hospital menu anyway. I really don't know how I'm going to do this! :ohno:

[penguin89]

I must ask, how do you ladies limit your carbs and still get enough to eat?? I'm sitting here looking over my menu, and everything is about 2-3 carbs, but for lunch, I only get 3-4 and for dinner I only get 4. So that basically puts me at a sandwich and 1 side and I can't have anything else! It doesn't help that options are limited by the hospital menu anyway. I really don't know how I'm going to do this! :ohno:

Yikes. I'm allowed a few more carbs than you (I can eat 4 at lunch and up to 5 at diner) but basically surviving by consuming lots of nuts and cheese and other fattening but also nutritious low carb stuff. Also, I've upped my meat intake. Chicken, fish, beef... all have almost no carbs. Cottage cheese is another great option.

Another strategy: I have lots of snacks. I eat every two hours or so and that allows me to maintain a good weight gain. I'm allowed 1-2 carbs per snack (e.g., peanut butter on whole wheat). Are you allowed in the hospital? Or could your DH bring you some things?

It is tough though. :hugs:

[ClarisseMarie]

I'm also allowed 1-2 carbs for snacks, and I get 3 snacks a day, so that does help. They usually give me peanut butter and graham crackers, or peanut butter and a granola bar, or a piece of fruit with cheese. My DH can definitely bring in anything, so that will help too. I think the hardest part is trying to eat the foods I know are healthy while watching carbs. For example, my meat options at breakfast are sausage and bacon. Well, I can't bring myself to eat them every single day because they are terrible! I do like them, but I'm usually fairly health-conscious and it just goes against the grain to eat those things. I'm also not a big meat eater, which doesn't help. I don't like meat much unless its chopped up and in something else and if there isn't very much of it. But if it's what I have to do for 9 weeks I'll figure it out. If I were home I'd focus on eating lots of egg whites, eggplant, black beans, and definitely a lot of cheese and nuts.
Thankfully, my sugar has been 130 or less all day!

[penguin89]

I hate eating meat too, and I only eat it - at home at least - when I'm pregnant. And I agree that bacon every morning sounds revolting! Eggs, though, are a fab option. Super high in protein and nutrients but with no carbs. And if you aren't eating too much meat, there's less concern about the cholesterol. Can you get cottage cheese too? Eggs, cottage cheese, a couple of slices of toast and a glass of milk would be a tasty big breakfast inside your carb range.

Bad news about the black beans though: they are SUPER high in carbs. All beans are. Hence me upping my meat intake. :eat: :(

When it comes to red meat in particular, I have to take a deep breath and force myself to eat it. Just so unappetizing to me. (sigh). All in a good cause, right?

[ClarisseMarie]

Too bad about the black beans! Well I don't think they have them here anyway. :) They do have cottage cheese available for lunch and dinner, but it's not on the breakfast menu. I am wondering if it's something I could request - it's not like they have to make it, so it seems to me to be a reasonable thing to ask!

Yes, all for the cause!!! :belly3:

[cheysum]

Does anyone know how they come up with the amount of carbs you're allowed??

I have been going on 2 carbs for breakfast, 3 for lunch and 3 for dinner with 2 - 2carb snacks during the day.....I didnt realize that was so little until I read what ya'll were having.

And (I know shame on me) I cant live this way and have been getting worse and worse about eating more and more of what I want to and letting the sugars fall where they may. I'm also on Glyburide which I hate and dont take near the dosage that I should.

My sugars are all over the place, which you'd expect giving the way I'm starting to eat. I eat WAY too much fruit and milk. I dont eat sweets, but the fruit is a craving that I cant shake.

UGH I'm very frustrated and I'm really in need of some support and pep talk. I'm screwing up big time.

[penguin89]

So sorry you're having trouble! The carb quotas are based in part on how much weight they think you need to gain. I would think that, unless you're pretty overweight already, they'd want a twin momma to be eating way more carbs, even if you have to go on insulin. The overwhelming majority of women pregnant with twins are malnourished. You NEED to gain a lot of weight for you and your babies to be healthy.

Are you seeing a specialist? Someone who knows about the special needs of twin moms?

And some fruit is higher in carbs than other fruit. Maybe trying to find fruit that's less sugary?

But in any case, you may need more insulin so you can eat more good stuff. I'd advise you to tell your doc you're having trouble and see if you can rejig the diet.

I would have though that trading off a sugar soaked baby for a malnourished one is not smart. Especially since twins usually are smaller anyway.

Talk to your doctor!

[cheysum]

Really? Based on the amount of weight I need to gain?? Really? I was a runner and no where near overwt!!
I talked to my doctor, but I swear, I think sometimes the OB is almost as clueless about insulin and carbs as I am. The dietician is the one that made my meal plans and she looked anorexic!

I'm so frustrated.

Thanks for your help. Is the problem with GD the babies being too big?? I know being too big holds its own set of risks, but is there any risk to any of the organs or PTL or anything else serious?

Thanks!

[penguin89]

Hi there,

OK, if you were a runner and you've got twins in there, YOU NEED TO GAIN WEIGHT. Like, 35-45 pounds of serious weight. Are you seeing a high risk doc or just a regular OB? And are you gaining enough? You should ideally have been up 26 pounds by 26 weeks to be on track.

Your babies are at a WAY higher risk of preterm delivery because of you not gaining enough than because of your sugar. The placenta runs down, the babies start starving, you give birth too soon. There are some large well constructed studies on this. Malnutrition is highly correlated with preterm birth. And you will soon be so big that you aren't able to eat much any more since your tummy gets squashed, as you may have read.

OK, here is the info I was given by my (GD) specialist doc:

Risks for you of GD:
- UTI's
- high blood pressure & pre-eclampsia
- birth related trauma
- increased chance of permanent diabetes (25% chance if you were a healthy weight before pregnancy... 60% if you were overweight, but you weren't)
- increased c-section risk if babies get too big.

Risks of GD for babies:
- your babies may have sugar issues at birth, which are fairly easy to stabilize.
- (rarely) heart defects... but those would be set already and more likely if you had diabetes to begin with, while the heart was forming, not something that develops later... so nothing to worry about now
- jaundice
- your babies will be at higher risk for obesity later in life (but if you teach them good eating habits and to exercise like you do, that's probably a minor concern)
- preterm delivery if the babies get too big
- very large babies (with twins, kind of unlikely)

But seriously, the risk from not getting enough nutrition is real. Check it out on pubmed or ask your doctor (if s/he is a specialist). I consulted two experts when I was pregnant with my twins and they gave me plenty to read. Let's just say I was SERIOUS about gaining weight after I read that stuff.

Maybe just ask about taking more insulin. If you're eating healthy stuff and you need to put the weight on, that just seems way more sensible than grossly restricting your diet like that.

At least talk to the doc about it.

[cheysum]

Thanks for the info!
I've only gained 18 pounds so far and I'm 30.5 weeks along. No one seems very interested that I'm not gaining much. Although, when I found out I was pregnant I quit running and I'm sure that I've lost tons of muscle. So I probbaly have gained much more than the scale tells.

I'm only seeing a reg OB and I have another appt tomorrow, I'll bring it up again. The babies seem to be growing on track so far. I guess the end of the pregnancy is when they start to slow down relative to single babies, so I really need to pick it up!

Thank you!!! I really appreciate the time you took to answer my question!

[penguin89]

Thanks for the info!
I've only gained 18 pounds so far and I'm 30.5 weeks along. No one seems very interested that I'm not gaining much. Although, when I found out I was pregnant I quit running and I'm sure that I've lost tons of muscle. So I probbaly have gained much more than the scale tells.

I'm only seeing a reg OB and I have another appt tomorrow, I'll bring it up again. The babies seem to be growing on track so far. I guess the end of the pregnancy is when they start to slow down relative to single babies, so I really need to pick it up!

Thank you!!! I really appreciate the time you took to answer my question!

I would definitely bring it up with the doctor again. My MFM specialists would have FREAKED if I'd only put on 18lbs at 30 weeks (starting off slim, with twins). And maybe have a look at some of the studies on pubmed. The issue is less about the babies' growth at this stage (you're right that they slow down near the end...). It's partly that you will likely stop being able to eat much near the end. Twin moms are often literally starving by that point. So that's one reason to 'stock up'. And it's as much that the placenta may run out of steam without an adequate supply of nutrients, causing the babies to really stop growing and possibly a premature delivery.

But I see what you mean about the muscle loss. That is a great point. I've sure lost a lot of muscle too! And that does mean we've both probably put on a little more than the scale says. :winks:

Oh well, we'll get back in shape, right? :bellyrubs: All in a good cause.

[sammilynn]

I was informed that I am at risk for GD. I am hypoglycemic and Diabetes runs heavly through my family. Do you know of any way I can try to prevent it?

[penguin89]

I was informed that I am at risk for GD. I am hypoglycemic and Diabetes runs heavly through my family. Do you know of any way I can try to prevent it?

Just eat a healthy well balanced diet, don't put on more than the recommended amount of weight (25-35lbs if you are starting at normal weight) and exercise. Ultimately, if it runs in your family like it does in mine, you won't have much control over whether you get it or not. If you do get it, it's not the end of the world. More of a drag than a danger if you keep it under control. :hi:

[sammilynn]

Just eat a healthy well balanced diet, don't put on more than the recommended amount of weight (25-35lbs if you are starting at normal weight) and exercise. Ultimately, if it runs in your family like it does in mine, you won't have much control over whether you get it or not. If you do get it, it's not the end of the world. More of a drag than a danger if you keep it under control. :hi:

Thanks for the tips. Its just nerve racking. :hi:

[penguin89]

Thanks for the tips. Its just nerve racking. :hi:

Seriously, as far as complications go? It is completely no big deal. So long as you're careful to keep your sugar under control, the chances of it harming your baby are very slim. The fact that they'll be keeping an eye on it early means you should be A-OK. :hugs:

[jinxxycat]

Hello Ladies, well it looks like I'll be joining this group. I just got a call this morning that 2 out of 4 of my levels were elevated after my 3 hour test. I'm scared and feeling pretty guilty. I eat pretty well, am not overweight at all and have gained about 25 pounds so far (at 28 weeks).

They are going to refer me to the Maternal Fetal Medicine Group at the hospital some time this week and get me started on a "diet".

Are there any references that you can direct me towards for reading? Thanks.

ETA Was wondering what kind of sweeteners are safe to use. I usually don't do full sugar foods, I usually lean towards sugar free/low fat everything, but when I got pregnant I thought I was doing the right thing by avoiding artificial sweeteners and using full sugar stuff. So now I find out that this is probably one reason my levels are out of whack.

[lhill8]

well i just failed my test. looks like i have it too! it's the least of my worries though, i have been going through thinking that my 12 weeker has a probably fatal cystic hygroma for a few days but saw my perinatologist today and got GREAT NEWS! it's not a hygroma, but the nuchal translucency is still a little high, at 3.5mm. he said baby's growth rate was perfect, which isn't the norm for babies with chromosomal abnormalities-so baby prob is a-okay!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

we really need our own group for sub categories, like what to eat, etc

i've read that splenda is safe, which i use. but i don't know about any others...

[LaurieH]

Man just failed the first 1 hour glucose screen at 12w. The cut off for my clinic is 129 and I had a 144. I got my result and the normal range sent to me online. I am now waiting to hear when I will have to take the next step. I hope I pass the next phase. I did not have any problems with my daughter but that was 4 years ago.

[sammilynn]

i've read that splenda is safe, which i use. but i don't know about any others...

splenda actually is not the best... stevia is better :)

[LaurieH]

Ok so I have been on th GD diet for a week and my fasting blood sugars keep rising as well as my post breakfast levels. Do you exercise after breakfast? I am going to try to readjust my breakfast and night snack, but I also need to add milk in the middle of the night to reduce ketones. This is getting out of control.

Has anyone gone on Glyburide early in a pregnancy?

[HCBB]

I was diagnosed with GD last week, was changed to another clinic and my first appt there is tomorrow to see what are they giving me to control it...

http://tickers.baby-gaga.com/p/dev055pf___.png (http://pregnancy.baby-gaga.com/)

[kbaley]

Hey ladies!Congrats to all of you!I'm still in shock.:cabbage:

I was recently diagnosed and now that i'm pregnant i'm on insulin, no metformin allowed now.It kind of sucks having to stick myself 4 times a day and test 4 times a day, but i'm 35 and never had any children so whatever it takes right?? I found out i was high risk any way just because of my age, i never knew that before.

I am so excited to be a mommy finally!!

How do i get the baby ticker to show up? Anyone?

[kbaley]

I knew i could figure it out:hooray:

[kbaley]

Hi Ladies,

Hope we are all well! I am almost through the 1st trim and everything except my sugar control is going great. No morning sickness, hungry all the time though.

The doctors have increased my insulin dosages and it seems to be working, some of my numbers are where they are wanting them.

I still have boredom with what I can eat though, any suggestions besides brown rice, boneless, skinless, tasteless chicken, or salads and fruit, i'm all ears.I'm am not sure how i am expected to gain weight on this:shocker:

We have a Nuechal/ translucency screening on April 15th. I know the Lord has his hand on this baby and me, so I am not concerned. We are just so excited to be parents, finally!

[daisy74]

Hi Ladies,

Hope we are all well! I am almost through the 1st trim and everything except my sugar control is going great. No morning sickness, hungry all the time though.

The doctors have increased my insulin dosages and it seems to be working, some of my numbers are where they are wanting them.

I still have boredom with what I can eat though, any suggestions besides brown rice, boneless, skinless, tasteless chicken, or salads and fruit, i'm all ears.I'm am not sure how i am expected to gain weight on this:shocker:

We have a Nuechal/ translucency screening on April 15th. I know the Lord has his hand on this baby and me, so I am not concerned. We are just so excited to be parents, finally!

Did they give you any specifics on what amount of carbs you CAN eat? I eat lots of veggies, salads & protein. Over a cup of strawberries is one serving of carbs, which is a snack. Or one apple, one banana, 1 nature's valley granola bar, 3 cups of popcorn... I "get" 45 carbs/3 units for breakfast, lunch & dinner, with 15 g carbs/1 unit for snack mid morning & mid afternoon, and then 30 g carbs for bedtime snack, with a protein. Salads, cottage cheese are a regular part of my diet. I eat rice, pasta, cereal - I just have to watch the amount (and some cereals are 50+ g carbs in one serving, some are 20!) I eat sandwiches - but on lower carb bread - instead of eating spaghetti AND breadsticks, I skip the breadsticks & my blood sugar is ok...
Melissa

[mommywero]

Hi, my name is Jamie. Yesterday I had my 3 hour test and failed one of the drawings.

I am being referred to a specialist and nutritionist on Monday.

My question is this:

My daughter has been teething for the past two weeks and I've only been averaging 3-4 hours of sleep per night and that's not consecutive. Could my lack of sleep have caused my blood sugar levels to sky rocket? I'm wondering this because the night before my 1 hour test I had a decent amount of sleep and only failed by a few points. The night before the 3 hour test I barely got 3 hours (one of her teeth finally cut that night - it was awful!) of sleep and it was the 1 hour draw portion of the test where my levels sky rocketed over 200.

Would they still consider me GD? Should I ask to retake the test next week when my sleep schedule is back on track? It just doesn't make since that I barely fail the 1 hour and then fail the 3 hour miserably KWIM?

[babysalvador]

Hi, I belong to this group. Three weeks ago, I was diagnosed with GD. It was hard to be put on a very restrictive diet because I do have a cooking website and I love food. But so far, I am doing really good with my blood sugar. I think what happened was my sugar skyrocketed since we start the cooking blog. I am now back to my usual eating routine when, only without sugar. Thank God for the artificial sweetener. It may not be the best but it sure is better than sugar. I also switched from white rice to brown rice. It took me a while to get used to it though. The best thing that helps is my husband. He is also eating the same diet as mine.

[mommytoababyangel]

Hello ladies .I will be join in on this one as well.My levels were 219 ....cut was 120.So I fail big time!

[Srosenthal]

Hi everyone
I was diagnosed today. My fasting was at 102 and my 1 hr test was 149. I still need to see an endocronologist. I have tons of questions.
Did you guys just buy a glucose monitor pr wait for the endocronologist to give you a perscription for one?

[redblue]

Hi Ladies:I will be joining to this group too.I was diagnosed 2 weeks ago with GD.So far tryig to manage tru diet only.My concern is my baby being small due to GD.Does anybody have the same problem.I've always thought u would have big babies due to GD.Apperantly not...They haven't made the exact diagnoses for baby being small due to GD ,she could be just a small frame baby but my Prei is still little concerned about my LO's size...I've gained enough weight and was in a normal range pre-preg. too..I've been seeing high risk OB since the first trimester....

I was wondering if anybody has small baby isse due to GD?
I'm currently 31 weeks 4 days

[jinxxycat]

AFAIK GD will not cause your baby to be small, it's them being too large if the sugars are not managed well enough. I've never heard of babies of GD mamas being too small....is your OB concerned about her size/development?

[jinxxycat]

Hi everyone
I was diagnosed today. My fasting was at 102 and my 1 hr test was 149. I still need to see an endocronologist. I have tons of questions.
Did you guys just buy a glucose monitor pr wait for the endocronologist to give you a perscription for one?


Personally I had an appt with the dietitian immediately after the diagnosis for GD and they gave me a monitor on the spot. I didn't have to pay for it at all. I was also given a number to call for a diabetes supply place, and after answering a few questions I was given all of my supplies (test strips, lances, alcohol swabs) free of charge. They did call me a few times to see if I needed supplies which could be annoying I guess but I didn't mind since they sent the supplies to me free. :)

[redblue]

AFAIK GD will not cause your baby to be small, it's them being too large if the sugars are not managed well enough. I've never heard of babies of GD mamas being too small....is your OB concerned about her size/development?

yes u CAN have a small baby due to GD APA has info about that too
http://www.americanpregnancy.org/pregnancycomplications/iugr.htm.

But my LO does have fetal weight that is above the 10th percentile for gestational age which is great.

Also my OB said that with GD it can go either way:u can have a big baby or small baby.

[KAIRAMOMMY]

hi
i have a 4year old and i was Gd with my daughter i found out when i was 6mos and she came out fine my sugar was uncontrolled not by the lack of not trying. i was running in the 3oo's i was on 6 shots a day and 3meals and 3 snacks... i had great doctors and my advices is keep up the good work ur doing fine and ur baby will come out healthy. I pray that every thing works out for u..