Updated: August 13, 2023
Originally Published: January 5, 2020
I’ll be honest: when I received that call from my doctor informing me that I had failed my glucose screening test, disbelief washed over me. I immediately inquired about when I should take the more extensive three-hour glucose tolerance test, convinced that it would confirm my sweet tooth wasn’t as problematic as it seemed. “No need,” she replied matter-of-factly. It turned out that my one-hour test results were quite alarming. My doctor recommended I see a diabetes counselor, where I would learn to eat like a rabbit and prick my finger three times a day. To say I was less than thrilled would be an understatement.
However, navigating gestational diabetes turned out to be significantly less distressing than I had anticipated. In fact, there were several silver linings to the experience:
1. Calm and Peaceful Evening Strolls
One of the strategies my doctor suggested for managing my condition was exercise. As I was in my third trimester and not gearing up for the Iron Man, this translated to walking for thirty minutes daily. I had never been a fan of physical activity, but escaping the house for some solitude amidst my preschooler’s chaotic art sessions was refreshing. With my iPhone blasting classic rock and no little ones in sight, I enjoyed leisurely walks where I could reflect on everything from baby clothes to my to-do list, while relishing some much-needed alone time.
2. An Educational Journey into Nutrition
I gained a wealth of knowledge about how sugar impacts the body and its hidden presence in many foods. While I was aware that chocolate ice cream was loaded with sugar, I was surprised to discover that even seemingly innocent foods, like too many carrots or sushi rice, could spike my blood glucose levels. This newfound understanding of sugar helped me feel more energetic and less exhausted throughout my pregnancy.
3. Minimal Weight Gain
Due to my restricted diet, I didn’t gain much weight during my third trimester. In fact, I even lost a bit of weight before my baby arrived. As a result, I was nearly back to my pre-pregnancy weight almost immediately after giving birth. Nothing soothes the discomfort of recovering from a c-section like people asking, “Wait, you just had a baby?” Though it may seem trivial, those compliments provided a welcome boost during the sleepless nights.
4. Increased Monitoring of Baby
For those of us who like to be in control, trusting the process of pregnancy can be challenging. However, with gestational diabetes, my doctor scheduled more frequent tests, including ultrasounds and non-stress tests. By the end of my pregnancy, I was enjoying weekly non-stress tests where I could relax in a hospital bed while a technician monitored my baby’s heartbeat. This extra attention gave me peace of mind and helped me unwind during those final weeks.
5. More Time for Self-Care
Pregnancy can sometimes make you feel like you’re just a vessel for the little one on the way. You become preoccupied with preparing for the new arrival, from decorating the nursery to researching diapering options. However, having gestational diabetes forced me to focus on my own health. Whether it was taking walks or experimenting with healthy recipes, I learned that a healthy mom contributes to a healthy baby—a fact that can easily be overlooked when you’re feeling overwhelmed and uncomfortable.
Of course, gestational diabetes is a serious condition that requires careful management. It’s essential to note that women who experience GD are at a higher risk for type 2 diabetes later on. Nevertheless, being diagnosed with gestational diabetes doesn’t equate to a life sentence. With the right mindset, it can be an opportunity for positive lifestyle changes that benefit both mom and baby. For more information on managing your health during pregnancy, check out this article on privacy policies here. For those exploring the journey to motherhood, this resource provides valuable insights into at-home insemination. Additionally, for further information on pregnancy and home insemination, you might find this blog helpful.
Summary
Gestational diabetes can be a challenging diagnosis, but it also offers opportunities for personal growth, education in nutrition, and increased focus on self-care. The experience can lead to a healthier pregnancy and set the stage for long-term lifestyle changes.