Gestational Diabetes & Induction: What to Expect at 36 Weeks

Question
I am 36wks pregnant, I have failed all my Glucose testing and my Dr cannot get me in to see a specialist for Gestational Diabetes. Will they Induce me if I cant get to the specialist and my Glucose levels are still high ??

Answer
Lyndsey,

Gestational diabetes by itself is not automatically a reason for induction.  

There is no evidence that induction or c-section improves outcomes for mothers or babies when your sugars are well-controlled.

The answer to this question will depend on how high your sugars are and how you are controlling them, i.e. with diet and exercise, insulin, etc.

Here are some articles that explain more on Gestational Diabetes and courses of treatment:

http://www.givingbirthnaturally.com/what-is-gestational-diabetes.html
http://www.givingbirthnaturally.com/gestational-diabetes-treatment.html
http://www.givingbirthnaturally.com/treatment-for-gestational-diabetes.html


If your doctor does want to induce, you can ask the specific reasons and risks/benefits of induction vs. spontaneous labor.  Induction brings many risks that are not inherent to spontaneous labor, for both you and your baby.  It is advisable to avoid induction and c-section unless truly medically indicated and a diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes does not automatically qualify in this area.


Best,
Catherine