Gestational Diabetes: What It Is, When to Test, and How to Manage It
Gestational Diabetes: What It Is, When to Test, and How to Manage It
A clear, pharmacist-informed guide to gestational diabetes—from timing of screening to day-to-day management and what to do after birth.
By Due Date Prep • 5–6 min read
Jump to: What It Is • When to Test • Who’s at Risk • Symptoms • How It’s Managed • After Baby • Sources
At a Glance
- Gestational diabetes (GDM) develops during pregnancy in people who didn’t have diabetes before pregnancy; it typically shows up around week 24.
- Because GDM may not cause symptoms, routine screening between 24–28 weeks is recommended.
- After birth, most GDM resolves—but it raises future type 2 diabetes risk; get tested 4–12 weeks postpartum and then every 1–3 years.
Gestational diabetes is common and manageable. With timely testing, nutrition and movement strategies, and blood sugar monitoring—plus medication when needed—you can support a healthy pregnancy and baby.
What is gestational diabetes?
Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes first recognized during pregnancy. It affects many pregnancies in the U.S. each year.
When do I get tested?
Because GDM usually develops around the 24th week, most people are screened between 24–28 weeks of pregnancy. If you’re at higher risk, your clinician may test earlier.
Who’s at higher risk?
- History of GDM in a previous pregnancy
- Prediabetes or a family history of type 2 diabetes
- Other clinical risk factors assessed by your provider
Your provider will review your personal risk factors and decide whether earlier screening makes sense.
Does it cause symptoms?
Many people with GDM have no noticeable symptoms, which is why routine screening matters.
How is GDM managed?
- Healthy eating pattern & movement: Balance carbohydrates with protein, fiber, and healthy fats; follow your care team’s meal and activity guidance.
- Blood sugar monitoring: Check levels as directed to see how food, activity, and time of day affect your glucose.
- Medication when needed: Some people may need insulin or other medications if targets aren’t met with lifestyle changes alone.
Your care team will personalize targets and treatment to protect both you and baby.
After baby: testing & long-term health
GDM usually goes away after birth, but it increases your future risk of type 2 diabetes. Get a glucose test 4–12 weeks postpartum, and continue screening every 1–3 years. Staying active, nourishing well, and maintaining a healthy weight can help lower your risk.
Snack smart, mama
Managing blood sugar is a daily rhythm. While your care plan comes first, our Due Date Prep date-based snacks offer fiber and real-food ingredients for steady energy—perfect for the diaper-bag or desk. (Not a diabetes treatment.)
- Educational content only and not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider.
- *These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Sources & Further Reading
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Gestational Diabetes — About. cdc.gov/diabetes/about/gestational-diabetes
- CDC. Diabetes During Pregnancy (Maternal & Infant Health). cdc.gov/maternal-infant-health/pregnancy-diabetes
- CDC. Diabetes Basics — Gestational Diabetes. cdc.gov/diabetes/about