Why gestational diabetes is dangerous

Jaundice is treated by exposing a newborn to ultraviolet lights. Low calcium and magnesium. Insufficient levels of calcium and magnesium in the blood can cause muscle cramps and spasms. This condition is easily treated with supplementation. Respiratory distress syndrome RDS. Gestational diabetes can cause fetal lungs to develop more slowly; if inadequate levels of lung surfactant are present at birth an infant could have breathing problems.

Increased risk for childhood and adult obesity. Children who weigh nine or more pounds at birth are at an increased risk for later weight problems. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version.

This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview Gestational diabetes is diabetes diagnosed for the first time during pregnancy gestation. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter.

Show references American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Practice Bulletin No. Diabetes and pregnancy — Gestational diabetes. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Accessed Dec. Gestational diabetes. Mayo Clinic; Durnwald C. Diabetes mellitus in pregnancy: Screening and diagnosis. Accessed Jan. American Diabetes Association. People with diabetes who take insulin or other diabetes medications can develop blood sugar that is too low. Low blood sugar can be very serious, and even fatal, if not treated quickly. Seriously low blood sugar can be avoided if women watch their blood sugar closely and treat low blood sugar early.

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