Is there a link between gestational diabetes and stillbirth?
Stillbirth is relatively uncommon, but uncontrolled gestational diabetes is one of many possible risk factors. Timely diagnosis and effective management of gestational diabetes can dramatically reduce the risks to you and your baby.
Stillbirth occurs when a baby dies in the womb at or after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Stillbirth occurs in about 1 in every 160 deliveries in the United States. There are many varied risk factors for stillbirth.
Gestational diabetes (GDM) isa type of diabetes that arises during pregnancy and often resolves with delivery. It’s increasingly common, affecting about 2–10% of U.S. pregnancies. If you have GDM, your pregnancy causes the production of hormones that increase your resistance to insulin. When you’re resistant to insulin, you’ll have higher circulating blood sugar.
Uncontrolled GDM poses some risks to pregnant people and their babies, including a possible increased risk of stillbirth. But timely diagnosis and management of GDM can greatly reduce those risks.
If you’re pregnant, a doctor will likely recommend screening for GDM at 24–28 weeks’ gestation. If you receive a diagnosis of GDM, a doctor can help you bring your blood sugar down to a healthy level with recommended dietary changes, exercise, and, if needed, medications.
A 2012 U.S. study estimated a stillbirth risk of approximately 17 per 10,000 in people with GDM, compared with 12.7 per 10,000 in pregnancies uncomplicated by GDM. But other research hasn’t associated GDM with an increase in overall stillbirth risk.
The risk of complications associated with GDM, including the risk of stillbirth, can be reduced to typical levels when blood sugar is well managed.
Can gestational diabetes harm the unborn baby?
GDM can cause complications for babies, including:
excessive growth (increasing risk of birth injuries)
preterm birth
newborn breathing difficulties
newborn hypoglycemia
newborn jaundice
increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease later in life
These risks can be reduced by taking steps to manage them. At what time do most stillbirths occur?
Although the actual number of stillbirths is very low, the risk appears highest in people with GDM when their baby is at around 28–36 weeks’ gestation. Compared with pregnancies without GDM, relative risk peaks around 37 weeks before declining. The risk begins to rise again after your due date.
Can gestational diabetes cause fetal distress?
Signs of fetal distress are decreases in fetal heart rate, movement, and amniotic fluid level.
A 2020 study found that babies affected by GDM were more likely to experience fetal distress.”
Thank you for addressing this important topic! It’s crucial to raise awareness about the potential risks associated with gestational diabetes. It’s also important for expectant mothers to regularly consult with their healthcare providers to monitor and manage any complications that may arise. This can significantly help in reducing the risks associated with both gestational diabetes and stillbirth. Great post!
Thank you for addressing such an important topic. It’s crucial for expecting mothers to understand the potential risks associated with gestational diabetes. Proper prenatal care and monitoring can make a significant difference in outcomes. I’m eager to read more about this and appreciate the insights provided.
This is an incredibly important topic to address. Gestational diabetes can indeed increase the risk of complications during pregnancy, including stillbirth. It’s vital for expectant mothers to receive proper prenatal care and monitoring to manage blood sugar levels effectively. Thank you for bringing awareness to this issue; it could help many women take the necessary steps to ensure a healthy pregnancy!
Absolutely, gestational diabetes can increase the risk of stillbirth. High blood sugar levels during pregnancy can lead to complications such as fetal macrosomia, preeclampsia, and placental insufficiency, all of which can contribute to the risk of stillbirth. It’s crucial for expecting mothers diagnosed with gestational diabetes to closely monitor and manage their blood sugar levels and work with their healthcare providers to minimize risks and ensure a healthy pregnancy outcome.