Gestational diabetes is a condition that can affect women during pregnancy, characterized by high blood sugar levels that are first diagnosed during pregnancy. Unlike other types of diabetes, gestational diabetes is not caused by a lack of insulin, but rather by hormonal changes during pregnancy that can make insulin less effective—a condition known as insulin resistance. Understanding this condition, its causes, risk factors, and how to manage it effectively, particularly through exercise, is vital for the health of both mother and baby. Our women’s health team at EW Motion Therapy can create customized exercise programs that are safe during pregnancy and can help keep you active. You may decide that our services don’t fit your needs, but you can still read on to learn about gestational diabetes, how exercise can help reduce your risk of developing the condition, and how physical therapy can be a valuable intervention to keep your exercises safe and effective.
What is gestational diabetes?
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) occurs when the body cannot effectively process sugars, leading to elevated glucose levels in the blood. This condition is typically diagnosed through prenatal screening tests in the second or third trimester. While it usually resolves after childbirth, it can impact the health of the mother and baby during pregnancy and can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life for both.
Causes and risk factors
The exact cause of gestational diabetes is not known, but several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing this condition. These include:
- Age: Women over the age of 25 are at higher risk of developing gestational diabetes.
- Family history: A family history of diabetes can predispose individuals to develop the condition.
- Previous gestational diabetes: Having had the condition in a previous pregnancy increases a woman’s risk in subsequent pregnancies.
- Excess weight: Being overweight or obese before pregnancy can heighten your risk.
- Ethnicity: Women who are Hispanic, African American, Native American, Asian, or Pacific Islander may have a higher risk.
Exercise for managing gestational diabetes
Exercise is a cornerstone of managing gestational diabetes because it helps improve blood glucose levels by increasing the efficiency of insulin and reducing insulin resistance. Engaging in regular physical activity can be highly beneficial, not just for managing blood sugar levels, but also for improving overall wellness during pregnancy.
Exercise helps reduce the risk of diabetes in the following ways:
- Improves insulin sensitivity: Exercise helps your body use insulin more effectively. Even moderate physical activity can help the muscle cells use glucose more efficiently.
- Lowers blood sugar levels: Physical activity helps lower blood sugar levels by moving sugar into the cells where it's used for energy.
- Promotes healthy weight gain: Exercise can help manage weight, preventing excessive weight gain during pregnancy which is a risk factor for gestational diabetes.
Recommended exercises for gestational diabetes
It's important for expectant mothers to choose safe, moderate activities that will not overly strain the body. Consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new exercise routines, especially when diagnosed with gestational diabetes. Here are some recommended exercises:
- Walking: Simple, safe, and effective, walking provides cardiovascular benefits without excessively stressing the body.
- Swimming: This activity is particularly beneficial because it works so many muscles in the body without putting pressure on the joints.
- Prenatal yoga: Yoga can help maintain muscle tone and keep the body flexible without any high-impact movements.
- Stationary cycling: A great way to raise the heart rate while reducing the risk of falling and injuring oneself.
- Light strength training: Using light weights or resistance bands can help maintain muscle tone and strength.
Implementing a safe exercise routine
Before starting any exercise regimen, it's important for pregnant women, particularly those with gestational diabetes, to consult with their healthcare provider. This ensures the safety of both mother and child throughout the pregnancy.
Monitoring blood glucose levels is crucial when exercising. It helps track how exercise affects your glucose levels, allowing adjustments in your routine to maintain a healthy range.
Keeping hydrated is essential, especially during exercise. Additionally, remain aware of how your body feels during activity; stop the exercise if you feel any discomfort and, if necessary, get a medical consultation.
How physical therapists support safe exercise during pregnancy
Physical therapists play a pivotal role in helping expectant mothers manage gestational diabetes through safe and effective exercise plans. Their expertise in body mechanics, muscular function, and overall physical well-being makes them invaluable resources for pregnant women, especially those dealing with the complexities of gestational diabetes.
Tailoring exercise programs to individual needs
Physical therapists are trained to assess individual health conditions and physical capabilities, which is crucial for expectant mothers. They can develop personalized exercise programs that factor in the mother’s current fitness level, pregnancy stage, and any other health concerns. A personalized approach ensures that the exercise is beneficial and does not pose any risk to the mother or the baby.
Core stability and pelvic health
One key benefit of working with a physical therapist is their ability to focus on core stability and pelvic floor health, which are crucial during pregnancy. Physical therapists can teach exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor and core muscles, which support the uterus and play significant roles during labor and delivery. Strengthening these areas can also help manage and prevent lower back pain, a common complaint during pregnancy.
Safe exercise techniques and postures
Physical therapists are adept at instructing proper exercise techniques and postures to prevent injury. During pregnancy, the body’s center of gravity shifts, which can affect balance and increase the risk of falls. A physical therapist can provide guidance on adjusting movements to maintain balance and ensure that joint alignment and posture are correct during exercise. This is especially important to prevent undue stress on the body, which can exacerbate gestational diabetes symptoms or lead to other complications.
Monitoring and adjustments
As pregnancy progresses, the physical abilities and needs of an expectant mother can change. Physical therapists continuously monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to the exercise regimen. This ongoing assessment helps in managing gestational diabetes effectively throughout the entire pregnancy and ensures exercises are always performed safely.
Education and support
Beyond just prescribing exercises, physical therapists provide education on the importance of physical activity and its impact on gestational diabetes. They support and motivate expectant mothers to maintain an active lifestyle, which is crucial for the health of both the mother and the baby. Physical therapists also offer emotional support by addressing concerns and anxieties about exercising during pregnancy, empowering women to feel confident in their ability to manage their health.
Incorporating the expertise of a physical therapist into the management of gestational diabetes can significantly enhance the safety and effectiveness of prenatal exercise routines. By focusing on individual needs, maintaining safety through proper technique, and providing ongoing support, physical therapists empower expectant mothers to take control of their health during one of the most important phases of their lives. Their guidance ensures that each woman can exercise confidently, knowing that she is doing what is best for her body and her baby, all while managing the effects of gestational diabetes.
Exercise empowers expectant mothers to take active steps towards maintaining their health and setting the stage for a healthier postnatal life. By incorporating regular, moderate exercise into your daily routine, you not only improve your own health outcomes but also those of your child. Remember, each step taken is a step toward a healthier future for you and your baby.
Adopting a proactive approach to exercise during pregnancy can help manage gestational diabetes effectively, ensuring a safer pregnancy and delivery. As always, work in tandem with your healthcare providers to tailor a plan that works best for your unique needs. A women’s health physical therapist can be an invaluable resource to help keep you healthy and active - our women’s health team works to do this daily at EW Motion Therapy. To learn more about how women’s health physical therapy can help you maintain your overall wellness, click the button below to download our answers to 20 frequently asked questions.
