Gestational Diabetes is a relatively common complication of pregnancy, affecting between three and eight percent of pregnant women. Gestational diabetes has been linked to problems such as large size of the baby, a greater risk of needing interventions and birth and a higher rate of c section.
For the baby, risk associated with gestational diabetes include an increased risk of developing type II diabetes later in life and a higher risk of jaundice or hypoglycemia at birth. Recent research suggests another potential long term complication.
French researchers have found a link between gestational diabetes and language delays. The study was published in the journal Pediatrics. Two groups of women were included in the study, those diagnosed with gestational diabetes during pregnancy and women with no history of the disorder.
Researchers found the children of women with gestational diabetes were tested between 15 months and seven years old for language development. The children born to mothers diagnosed with gestational diabetes achieved lower scores on tests of language development.
Interestingly, researchers found that the education level of the mother plays a part in the risk of language delay. Mothers with gestational diabetes who had higher levels of education had children less likely to be affected. Researchers haven’t determined the reason for this difference, but hypothesize that it could be due to genetics or greater exposure to experiences that encourage language development.
Prevention of gestational diabetes is the best way to reduce the likelihood of babies being affected in this way. A healthy diet, exercise and controlling weight gain may offer some protection against gestational diabetes. There is some evidence to suggest a diet high in fiber from sources such as apples, beans, barley and prunes may reduce the risk of developing gestational diabetes.
If you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, it is important to control your blood sugar. Follow your doctor’s advice regarding diet, exercise and testing your blood sugar.
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