Mondays with Mary – GDM & Post Partum Care
Most people who had gestational diabetes (GDM) see their blood sugar return to normal after giving birth. Even so, they should get a diabetes test after delivery and have their blood sugar checked every year. GDM can also happen again in future pregnancies, so screening should be done at the first prenatal visit.
When planning another pregnancy, talk with your health care provider about birth control and keeping blood sugar in a healthy range. Some birth control methods can raise blood sugar, so another option may be better. Staying at a healthy weight, eating well, and being active can help lower the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later.
To help prevent Type 2 diabetes and heart disease:
• Keep up with postpartum checkups
• Get a yearly A1C test
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Eat healthy foods and limit sugary drinks
• Be active most days of the week
• Breastfeed if possible
• Have cholesterol checked about six months after birth Postpartum can be a big adjustment.
If you feel sad or depressed, reach out to your health care provider for support.
Watch the full video here: https://youtube.com/shorts/APVXPPmhRbI
Additional Resources: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CFH/DMCAH/Pages/Diabetes/Postpartum.aspx https://diabetes.my.dukehealth.org/sites/default/files/2023-06/Postpartum%20Gestation%20Diabetes%20Mellitus.final_.pdf https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2018/05/optimizing-postpartum-care