in March 2024 Babies 🇬🇧

Gestational diabetes

Hello all. So I had quite a shocking doctors appointment yesterday. I took in a urine sample because I was convinced I had a uti because it was just so uncomfortable when I went to the loo and I was going all the time, like I'd feel pressure on my bladder immediately after going. The doctor said that there was no sign of infection but there was glucose in my urine which may mean I have gestational diabetes😢 this is shocking to me considering I don't really have that much sugar in my diet that is like pure sugary stuff, I am 24, underweight pre pregnancy, vegan! And literally none of the risk factors apply to me. So now I have to do a diabetes test to see if I am diabetic. But I am stressing out because I already have an eating disorder (hence being underweight pre pregnancy) and I have been trying so damn hard to eat normally for baby's sake. And now I feel I have to be sooooo careful about what I eat, and I'm worried about regressing into my eating disorder behaviours by watching what I'm eating. It's also things like I don't know how to get the right amount of calories in healthily without any sugar, and my brain is just sort of freaking out. I don't know what to do :( Any advice? Anyone else experience this before?

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First and foremost. Take a deep breath and let it out slowly. From what I understand gestational diabetes is actually quite common and is to do with the hormonal changes in your body. But remember right now its a maybe. Don't change what you're doing just yet. Have you had your midwife appointment yet? Speak with them with any questions and concerns.. they know what they are talking about abnd are the professionals. They will be able to point you in the right direction :) Even the numbers on the maternity passport are there for you, with any questions. It's more important to get proper medical advice on this, rather than us. Well done on managing your disorder though and being upfront and open. You got this, you are stronger than you think. Wishing you the best xx

So sorry to hear you are having a tough time! ❤️ First off, wait and see. Find out what the test result says before stressing too much about it (easier said than done, I know, but try 🤗) If you're feeling totally overwhelmed, maybe reach out to your midwife? If it is indeed gestational diabetes/ any diabetes for that matter, you can handle it from there. There are so many substitutes and options available these days that it really doesn't have to feel like a punishment. When is your test? Hang in there, and reach out in the meantime if you're not coping ❤️

Just here to reiterate previous comments. How's your support system in your home life? Now is the time to use them, us, and your midwives and/or consultant if you are diagnosed.

Similar to above, lots of super healthy low BMI friends suddenly got gestational diabetes and it went post birth. However in terms of the eating challenges, perhaps something to consider is working with your partner or family (if that’s an option). Perhaps they get really clear on the parameters of the diet and lead on meal prep etc so that you aren’t so conscious about it. It’s hard to not get fixated when it’s been an issue before and definitely something you’ll want support with.

Follow Nichi Hodgson on Instagram. If your scroll back through her posts she talks about exactly this and how it made her feel. And how she dealt with thr changes to her body in pregnancy and post partum in general. @nichihodgson

I am on my 3rd diabetic pregnancy. Gd is caused by hormones not because you have eaten something sugary. Also to note that carbs play a big role also in diabetes not just sugar. I would have a look at gestational diabetes UK website also have a Facebook page is and absolute godsend for explaining everything simply and in detail and also has lots and lots of recipes you can also filter for vegan recipes aswell. You are not alone. Inbox is open xx

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