Glossary of Gestational Diabetes

To help you better understand GDM, a good place to start is by learning the lingo. Here's a helpful glossary of common terms your doctor will you with you when discussing your condition. Remember, GDM is manageable; try not to worry. As long as you keep an open line of communication with your doctor, you and Baby will weather this pregnancy with grace and ease!

Diabetes mellitus

A disorder that prevents the body from converting digested food into the energy needed for daily activities.

Glucose tolerance test

A blood test used to diagnose diabetes, including gestational diabetes. After drinking a liquid containing 100 grams of glucose, blood is drawn every hour for three hours. Two or more abnormally elevated blood sugar levels indicate gestational diabetes.

Hypoglycemia

A condition where the blood sugar is lower than normal. This is a dangerous condition and should be avoided or treated rapidly.

Insulin

A hormone manufactured by the pancreas. Insulin helps glucose leave the blood and enter the muscles and other tissues of the body.

Macrosomia

A term meaning "large body." This refers to a baby that is considerably larger than normal. This condition occurs when the mother's blood sugar levels have been higher than normal during pregnancy. This is a preventable complication of gestational diabetes.

Ketone

A break-down product of fat that accumulates in the blood as a result of inadequate insulin or inadequate calorie intake.

Pancreas

A long gland that lies behind the stomach. The pancreas manufactures insulin and digestive enzymes.

Placenta

A special tissue that joins the mother and fetus. It provides hormones necessary for a successful pregnancy and supplies the fetus with water and nutrients (food) from the mother's blood.

Trimester

A period of three months. Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters. The first trimesteris 0-13 weeks gestation. The second trimester is 14-26 weeks gestation. And the third trimester is 27 weeks gestation until birth.

Read more:

What is Gestational diabetes?
Symptoms of Gestational diabetes
How to Avoid Gestational Diabetes
Advices about gestational diabetes diet