Early signs of gestational diabetes & CSLC CAP

Expecting Safely: Understanding Early Signs of Gestational Diabetes & Clinically Supported Lifestyle Correction (Based on Dr. Jolly Thomson’s Approach)

Pregnancy brings many changes, and for some women, it can involve developing gestational diabetes (GDM) – a type of diabetes that appears for the first time during pregnancy. While usually temporary, GDM requires careful management to ensure the health of both mother and baby. At LCC Hospital, leveraging Clinically Supported Lifestyle Correction (Based on Dr. Jolly Thomson’s Approach), we are dedicated to early detection, effective management, and empowering expectant mothers with the knowledge to navigate gestational diabetes safely.

Recognizing the Early Signs and Importance of Screening

Gestational diabetes often presents with no obvious symptoms in its early stages, which is why universal screening is crucial between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy (or earlier if you have risk factors, as is common in Kerala’s population). However, some subtle signs might include:

• Increased Thirst: Feeling unusually thirsty, even after drinking fluids.

• Frequent Urination: Urinating more often than typical during pregnancy.

• Fatigue: Feeling more tired than usual without clear cause.

• Increased Hunger: Feeling hungrier, even after eating.

• Blurred Vision: Though less common, can be a sign of high blood sugar.

• Recurrent Infections: Such as vaginal, bladder, or skin infections.

Untreated GDM can lead to complications for both mother (e.g., preeclampsia, needing a C-section, higher risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes later) and baby (e.g., excessive birth weight, breathing problems, low blood sugar after birth).

Clinically Supported Lifestyle Correction (Based on Dr. Jolly Thomson’s Approach): Your Partner in Healthy Gestational Diabetes Management

At LCC Hospital, our CSLC CAP (Clinically Supported Lifestyle Correction – Based on Dr. Jolly Thomson’s Approach) program is meticulously designed to empower expectant mothers diagnosed with gestational diabetes. This evidence-based program provides personalized, medically supervised interventions focusing on sustainable lifestyle changes that are safe and highly effective in controlling blood sugar during pregnancy.

Here’s how CSLC CAP provides invaluable support for managing gestational diabetes:

• Personalized Nutritional Guidance:
  • Expert counseling in prenatal nutrition and diabetes.
  • Development of a precise meal plan focusing on carbohydrate counting, appropriate portion sizes, balanced meals, and regular eating times to maintain stable blood sugar.
  • Emphasis on whole, unprocessed foods and fiber.

• Tailored Physical Activity Recommendations:
  • Guidance on safe and effective pregnancy-appropriate exercises that help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
  • Customized activity plans based on your fitness level and comfort, encouraging regular, moderate movement.

• Comprehensive Blood Glucose Monitoring and Education:
  • Thorough instruction on how to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly at home and interpret your readings.
  • Education on the impact of food, exercise, and stress on glucose, empowering you to make informed daily decisions.

• Medical Management and Close Monitoring:
  • Regular monitoring of fetal growth and well-being through ultrasounds.

• Stress Management Techniques:
  • Guidance on mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and adequate rest to manage stress, which can affect blood sugar.

• Post-Delivery Planning:
  • Education on post-delivery blood sugar testing and strategies to significantly reduce the risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes in the future, including continued healthy lifestyle and breastfeeding.

Ensuring a Healthy Pregnancy and Beyond

A diagnosis of gestational diabetes can be managed effectively with the right support. At LCC Hospital in Kochi, our CSLC CAP (Clinically Supported Lifestyle Correction – Based on Dr. Jolly Thomson’s Approach) program offers the expert guidance, education, and resources to navigate GDM safely, ensuring a healthy outcome for your pregnancy and laying the groundwork for your long-term health. Talk to doctor about how our CSLC CAP approach can empower you during your pregnancy.