Gestational diabetes is a common condition affecting pregnant women, typically developing in the second or third trimester. It occurs when the body struggles to produce enough insulin, a hormone that helps manage blood sugar levels. While many women can manage their gestational diabetes through a healthy diet and regular physical activity, the consequences of not controlling it can be significant. What happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled? The risks are considerable for both the mother and the baby, leading to complications during pregnancy, delivery, and even long-term health issues after birth.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore in detail what happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled, how it affects both mother and child, and provide steps that pregnant women can take to manage this condition effectively to ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
In This Article
What is Gestational Diabetes?
Before we delve into what happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled, it is essential to understand what gestational diabetes is and how it develops. During pregnancy, the placenta produces hormones that support the baby’s development, but these hormones can also interfere with insulin, making it more challenging for the body to control blood sugar levels. When the body is unable to produce enough insulin, blood sugar levels rise, resulting in gestational diabetes.
Gestational diabetes differs from Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, as it usually only develops during pregnancy and often disappears after giving birth. However, the condition still requires careful monitoring and management because what happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled can result in serious health risks.
Pregnant women should be screened for gestational diabetes between the 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy. If diagnosed, blood sugar levels must be managed to prevent complications for both the mother and the baby. If not, there are several consequences, which we will explore below.
What Happens If Gestational Diabetes Is Not Controlled?
Uncontrolled gestational diabetes can have serious consequences for both the mother and the baby. While gestational diabetes can usually be managed effectively, what happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled is that the risks increase dramatically. Below are the complications that can arise if gestational diabetes is left unmanaged.
1. Excessive Fetal Growth (Macrosomia)
One of the most common outcomes of uncontrolled gestational diabetes is excessive fetal growth, also known as macrosomia. High blood sugar levels in the mother lead to excess glucose crossing the placenta, causing the baby to store extra fat and grow larger than normal. What happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled is that this can result in complications during childbirth.
Consequences of Macrosomia:
- Difficult Delivery: A larger-than-average baby can lead to complications during vaginal delivery, including the risk of injury to the baby’s shoulders, known as shoulder dystocia.
- C-Section Delivery: Due to the increased size of the baby, many women with gestational diabetes may need a cesarean section (C-section) to deliver the baby safely.
- Birth Trauma: Both the mother and the baby are at a higher risk of injury during delivery. For the baby, this may include broken bones or nerve damage.
Managing blood sugar levels is crucial to avoid excessive fetal growth, as what happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled may make childbirth more difficult and increase the risks for both mother and baby.
2. Premature Birth
Another significant risk of uncontrolled gestational diabetes is premature birth. Premature birth occurs when a baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy. What happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled is that high blood sugar levels can lead to complications that trigger early labor.
Complications of Premature Birth:
- Underdeveloped Organs: Babies born prematurely often have underdeveloped lungs and may struggle to breathe on their own. They may require assistance, such as mechanical ventilation, in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
- Low Birth Weight: Although macrosomia (large babies) is common in gestational diabetes, premature babies may also be underweight due to incomplete growth and development in the womb.
- Long-term Health Issues: Premature babies are more likely to experience long-term health problems, including developmental delays, learning disabilities, and chronic health issues such as respiratory problems.
Premature birth is a serious risk when gestational diabetes is not managed. By keeping blood sugar levels under control, you can help reduce the risk of preterm labor and ensure a safer delivery.
3. Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia) in the Baby After Birth
Another important consideration when asking what happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled is the baby’s risk of developing low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, shortly after birth. When a mother has high blood sugar levels during pregnancy, the baby produces higher levels of insulin to manage the excess glucose.
Consequences of Neonatal Hypoglycemia:
- Jitteriness and Tremors: Babies born to mothers with gestational diabetes may experience shakiness or tremors shortly after birth due to low blood sugar levels.
- Seizures: In more severe cases, hypoglycemia can cause seizures in newborns.
- Developmental Delays: Prolonged or untreated hypoglycemia can lead to neurological damage or developmental delays as the baby grows.
To prevent these complications, healthcare providers will closely monitor the baby’s blood sugar after birth and may administer glucose if necessary. Properly controlling blood sugar during pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of neonatal hypoglycemia.
4. Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS)
Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) is another concern when it comes to what happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled. Babies born to mothers with uncontrolled gestational diabetes may struggle to breathe due to underdeveloped lungs.
Complications of RDS:
- Breathing Difficulties: Babies with RDS often need oxygen or mechanical ventilation to help them breathe after birth.
- Long-term Respiratory Issues: Some babies with RDS develop long-term respiratory conditions, such as asthma or other breathing problems.
- Extended Hospital Stays: Babies born with RDS may need extended stays in the NICU for specialized care.
By managing blood sugar levels throughout pregnancy, mothers can reduce the risk of RDS in their babies and help ensure that their lungs develop properly.
5. Increased Risk of Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication that involves high blood pressure and potential damage to organs like the liver and kidneys. It typically occurs after 20 weeks of pregnancy and is more common in women with gestational diabetes.
What happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled is that it significantly increases the likelihood of developing preeclampsia.
Consequences of Preeclampsia:
- Organ Damage: If preeclampsia is left untreated, it can lead to damage to the liver, kidneys, and other vital organs.
- Preterm Delivery: Severe preeclampsia may require early delivery to protect the health of both the mother and the baby.
- Seizures: In extreme cases, preeclampsia can lead to seizures (eclampsia), which can be life-threatening.
Women with gestational diabetes should have regular prenatal check-ups to monitor for signs of preeclampsia and manage blood sugar levels to reduce their risk.
6. Long-Term Health Risks for the Baby
Uncontrolled gestational diabetes not only poses risks during pregnancy and delivery but can also have long-term effects on the baby’s health. What happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled is that the baby is more likely to develop certain health conditions later in life.
Long-Term Health Risks:
- Obesity: Babies born to mothers with uncontrolled gestational diabetes are at higher risk of becoming overweight or obese during childhood.
- Type 2 Diabetes: These children are also more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes later in life due to insulin resistance and metabolic issues that begin in the womb.
- Developmental Delays: In some cases, babies born to mothers with uncontrolled gestational diabetes may experience developmental delays or learning difficulties as they grow.
Controlling blood sugar levels during pregnancy can help mitigate these risks and promote better long-term health outcomes for the baby.
7. Higher Risk of Stillbirth
One of the most severe outcomes of what happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled is stillbirth. High blood sugar levels in the mother can compromise the baby’s development and health in the womb, potentially leading to stillbirth, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy.
What causes stillbirth due to gestational diabetes?
- Placental Issues: Uncontrolled blood sugar can affect the placenta, which supplies oxygen and nutrients to the baby. If the placenta does not function properly, it can lead to fetal distress or stillbirth.
- Excessive Growth: Large babies may experience complications that can increase the risk of stillbirth, especially if gestational diabetes remains unmanaged.
Proper monitoring and blood sugar control are essential to reduce the risk of this tragic outcome.
Managing Gestational Diabetes: What You Can Do
After exploring what happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled, it’s clear that managing this condition is essential for the health and safety of both the mother and the baby. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to manage gestational diabetes and avoid the complications associated with uncontrolled blood sugar levels.
1. Healthy Eating
Following a balanced, healthy diet is one of the most effective ways to control gestational diabetes. The goal is to manage blood sugar levels by choosing foods that provide steady, consistent energy without causing sharp spikes in glucose.
Key Dietary Guidelines for Managing Gestational Diabetes:
- Focus on Whole Grains: Choose whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread, which are digested more slowly and have a smaller impact on blood sugar.
- Eat Plenty of Vegetables: Vegetables are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, helping to keep blood sugar levels stable.
- Lean Proteins: Include lean proteins like chicken, fish, eggs, and legumes in your diet to support healthy blood sugar levels.
- Avoid Sugary Foods and Beverages: Foods and drinks high in sugar can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar, so it’s best to limit these.
By sticking to a healthy diet, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with what happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled.
2. Regular Physical Activity
Exercise is another critical factor in managing gestational diabetes. Physical activity helps improve the body’s ability to use insulin, making it easier to control blood sugar levels.
Recommended Exercises for Gestational Diabetes:
- Walking: Walking is a safe and effective way to manage blood sugar during pregnancy.
- Swimming: Swimming offers a full-body workout that is gentle on the joints and great for regulating blood sugar.
- Prenatal Yoga: Yoga can help reduce stress and improve flexibility while supporting healthy blood sugar levels.
Consult your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise routine, especially if you have gestational diabetes.
3. Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels
One of the most important aspects of managing gestational diabetes is regularly monitoring your blood sugar levels. This will help you and your healthcare provider track how well your body is responding to diet and exercise and make adjustments as needed.
How to Monitor Blood Sugar Levels:
- Use a Glucometer: A glucometer is a small device that measures blood sugar levels. Your healthcare provider will guide you on how often to test your blood sugar and what your target ranges should be.
- Track Your Readings: Keeping a log of your blood sugar levels will help your doctor adjust your treatment plan if necessary.
Regular monitoring is essential to preventing the complications associated with what happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled.
4. Medication or Insulin Therapy
In some cases, diet and exercise alone may not be enough to control gestational diabetes. If your blood sugar levels remain high, your healthcare provider may recommend medication or insulin therapy to help regulate your glucose levels.
Types of Medication for Gestational Diabetes:
- Oral Medications: Some women with gestational diabetes may take oral medications to help lower blood sugar levels.
- Insulin: If oral medications are not effective, insulin injections may be necessary to control blood sugar levels during pregnancy.
Working with your healthcare provider to manage your condition will help reduce the risks of what happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled.
Must Read:
- How Does Gestational Diabetes Affect the Baby After Birth?
- Reduce Gestational Diabetes During Pregnancy
- Does Gestational Diabetes Affect Baby Brain Development?
Conclusion:
Gestational diabetes is a serious condition that requires proper management to protect the health of both the mother and the baby. What happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled can include complications like excessive fetal growth, premature birth, respiratory distress, low blood sugar, preeclampsia, and long-term health risks for the baby.
However, by following a healthy diet, staying physically active, regularly monitoring blood sugar levels, and working closely with your healthcare provider, these risks can be minimized. Managing gestational diabetes effectively will ensure a safer pregnancy and a healthier future for both mother and child.
FAQs:
What happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled in the third trimester?
If gestational diabetes is not controlled in the third trimester, it can lead to excessive fetal growth, increasing the risk of complications during delivery, including the need for a C-section.
Can gestational diabetes affect the baby after birth?
Yes, uncontrolled gestational diabetes can lead to low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia), respiratory distress, and a higher risk of long-term health issues like obesity and Type 2 diabetes.
What happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled and leads to preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia can lead to high blood pressure, organ damage, and the need for early delivery. In severe cases, it can result in life-threatening complications for both mother and baby.
How does gestational diabetes affect delivery?
Uncontrolled gestational diabetes can cause the baby to grow larger than normal (macrosomia), increasing the risk of birth injuries and the need for a C-section.
What happens if gestational diabetes is not controlled with diet alone?
If diet alone cannot control gestational diabetes, your healthcare provider may recommend medication or insulin therapy to help manage your blood sugar levels.
Can gestational diabetes go away after pregnancy?
Yes, gestational diabetes usually goes away after childbirth, but women who had gestational diabetes are at a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.