Pregnancy Health Center

Medication guides, Rx savings, and evidence-based health information for expectant mothers.

Not medical advice Rx savings included
Overview Preeclampsia Prenatal Vitamins Gestational Diabetes
Medical Disclaimer: Gestational diabetes management requires close coordination with your healthcare team. Blood sugar targets and medication choices are individualized. Do not adjust medications without medical guidance.

What Is Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is high blood sugar that develops during pregnancy in women who didn't have diabetes before. It affects approximately 2–10% of pregnancies annually in the US. Blood sugar usually returns to normal after delivery, but GDM increases long-term risk of type 2 diabetes for both mother and child.

Screening & Diagnosis

Standard screening occurs at 24–28 weeks with a glucose challenge test. High-risk women (obesity, prior GDM, family history) may be screened earlier. Diagnosis is confirmed with a 3-hour glucose tolerance test (GTT).

Treatment & Medications

🥗
Medical Nutrition Therapy
First-line treatment. Carbohydrate-controlled diet with registered dietitian guidance. Works for ~70–85% of women.
🚶
Physical Activity
30 minutes of moderate activity most days lowers blood sugar significantly without medication.
💉
Insulin Therapy
Gold standard when diet/exercise insufficient. Insulin doesn't cross the placenta. NPH + regular insulin commonly used.
💊
Metformin
Oral option used in some cases. Generic Metformin costs ~$3–$10/month. Discuss risks/benefits with your OB.
Save on Insulin & Metformin →

Free Rx discount card — no signup, accepted at 70,000+ pharmacies.