November is National Diabetes Month and this year’s focus is on promoting health after gestational diabetes – a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. Mothers who have had gestational diabetes need to be aware that they and their children have an increased lifelong risk for developing type 2 diabetes. According to the CDC, “half of all women who had gestational diabetes go on to develop type 2 diabetes.”

If you or someone you love has had gestational diabetes, you are encouraged to:

  • Get tested for type 2 diabetes within 12 weeks after baby is born. If the test is normal, testing should occur every 3 years.
  • Talk to your doctor if you plan to become pregnant again in the future.
  • Tell your child’s doctor if you have had gestational diabetes.
  • Keep up healthy habits for a lifetime to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes.

The Diabetes Association provides suggestions for lowering one’s risk for type 2 diabetes with just a few steps – staying at a healthy weight, being physically active and taking small steps for your health. Making a few small changes can have a big impact on your weight and overall health.

For more information, visit the American Diabetes Association.

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