Gestational diabetes: testing and care in Jeddah
Gestational diabetes is high blood sugar that appears for the first time in pregnancy. It can often be controlled with monitoring and diet. Your doctor sets your plan after assessment.
What it is
Pregnancy hormones affect how insulin works, so blood sugar rises in some women. It usually returns to normal after birth, but follow-up afterwards is important.
Who needs testing
A sugar test is usually done during pregnancy at a time your doctor chooses. You may be tested earlier if you have factors such as higher weight, a family history of diabetes or diabetes in a previous pregnancy.
How it is managed
- Checking blood sugar at home as your doctor advises
- Meal planning with a dietitian
- Activity suited to your pregnancy
- Medication only if needed, decided by your doctor
- Ultrasound to follow the baby’s growth
What to expect
Many women manage it with diet and monitoring. Keeping to your checks and appointments protects your health and your baby’s. If you feel very dizzy, extremely thirsty or keep vomiting, go to Aya’s emergency department, open 24/7.
This information is educational. Your doctor sets the right plan for you after an assessment.
Common questions
Gestational diabetes: testing and care in Jeddah
Does this mean I will develop diabetes?
Not necessarily, but the chance later in life is higher. Your doctor will advise a check after birth.
Does it affect the baby?
It can if it is not controlled. That is why we follow your sugar and the baby’s growth.
Will I need insulin?
Some women do. Only your doctor decides, based on your readings.
Can I give birth vaginally?
Often yes. Your doctor advises what is best near your due date.
Related treatments
- Pregnancy follow-up in JeddahPregnancy follow-up at Aya Hospital in Jeddah: regular visits, tests and ultrasound to look after you and your baby. Your doctor sets your schedule.
- Normal vaginal delivery in JeddahLearn about vaginal birth at Aya Hospital in Jeddah: the stages, what to expect and the support available. Your doctor decides after assessment.
- Caesarean delivery in JeddahA caesarean is a surgical birth. Learn why it is advised, how to prepare and how recovery goes at Aya Hospital in Jeddah. Your doctor decides.
Book a visit
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Choose the reason and the time that suits you, and we’ll send your request to the booking team on WhatsApp. They’ll call you to confirm.
In an emergency, come straight to Aya’s emergency department — open 24/7.