Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) during pregnancy is an important tool for women with gestational diabetes to manage their blood sugar levels and ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby.
Importance Of Continuous Glucose Monitoring During Pregnancy
Here is how continuous glucose monitoring during pregnancy helps a woman.
1. Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy and affects approximately 9% of pregnant women. This condition can lead to high blood sugar levels, which can result in complications for both the mother and the baby, including pre-eclampsia, preterm labour, large birth weight, and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
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Traditionally, gestational diabetes has been managed through frequent blood glucose testing, usually four to six times a day. However, this method can be time-consuming and uncomfortable, and it may not provide a complete picture of a woman's blood sugar levels throughout the day.
2. Posts About Blood Sugar Levels
CGM, on the other hand, provides continuous and real-time information about a woman's blood sugar levels, which allows for a more comprehensive and accurate understanding of her glucose control. The device consists of a small sensor that is inserted just under the skin and a wearable device that displays the glucose readings. The device provides information about both the current glucose level and the trend, indicating whether the levels are rising, falling, or staying the same.
3. Diabetes Management
With CGM, women with gestational diabetes can get a better understanding of how their daily activities, such as eating and exercising, affect their blood sugar levels. This information can help women make more informed decisions about their diabetes management, including adjusting their insulin doses, eating habits, and physical activity. Furthermore, CGM can provide valuable information for healthcare providers, who can use the data to make adjustments to a woman's treatment plan as needed.
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4. Eliminates Daily Testings
CGM is also beneficial for women who struggle with the traditional method of blood glucose testing, as it eliminates the need for multiple daily fingerstick tests. This can result in a significant reduction in discomfort and inconvenience, allowing women to focus on other aspects of their health and well-being during pregnancy.
In conclusion, continuous glucose monitoring is an important tool for women with gestational diabetes to effectively manage their blood sugar levels and ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby. The real-time information provided by CGM allows for a more comprehensive understanding of a woman's glucose control and can help women make informed decisions about their diabetes management. As such, CGM is an invaluable tool for improving the quality of care for women with gestational diabetes during pregnancy.
