GD and Natural Birth
MBush4
member
This is a cross-posted item because no one in natural birth has commented and I was wondering what you ladies would have to say.
I failed my 1-hr GTT and will have to take the 3-hr test next week. Until I know for sure whether I have GD or not I want to go in with the mindset that I do and change any habits that might be unhealthy so that if it is confirmed I have already begun to make necessary changes. But I have a question....
DH and I feel very strongly about having a NB. But I know that with GD the baby will often grow much larger than a regular baby. In addition, I'm pretty small (5' on a good day) so I know that my need for having c-section will be higher. But do any of you have experience with GD and NB? I would like to deliver naturally, if possible, and was wondering what else I would need to do to prep my body for this. Thanks!
Re: GD and Natural Birth
Thanks! This is good to know.
I don't know personally, but someone asked this question at my initial GD education session. The nurse said that it was definitely still possible to have a NB. I agree with PP that if you do have GD, that tight control of your blood sugars is key. That really is the goal for all of us, but maybe you have a little extra incentive.
Good luck with the 3 hour test. Many people fail the 1 hour and go on to pass the 3 hour. I did with my first pregnancy. So, hopefully you won't have to deal with this. But this board is here if you need it.
Thanks! Yeah, I thought I'd get a head start early on since my numbers were so high (186) on the 1-hr and I have a lot of things that increase my chances (family history of diabetes, hispanic, older, etc).
My GD babies were 6lbs 11 oz and 6lbs. Not large by any stretch. I was induced at 39 weeks both times because I was on insulin. Some OB's won't induce early due to GD, some will only induce early if you're on meds, some will induce early meds or not. It depends on your doctor and your specific case.
If you are diagnosed with GD you need to have an open discussion with your OB about their protocol and your wishes. It's still possible you can have the birth you want, but your best bet is to be educated on every scenario, natural or otherwise, so you can make the decision that's best for your and the baby and keep an open dialogue with your doctor.
DD1 Feb 2010
DD2 Sept 2011
My GD baby was 7 lbs 5oz. I delivered vaginally at 38 weeks and 3 days - went into labor on my own. It's very possible
I had GD with both pregnancies. DS # 1 was a natural birth and weighed 10 lbs 6 oz. DS #2 was 6 lbs 2 oz and born at 35 weeks. natural
You'd be amazed at what the body is capable of. Good luck!
I actually did ask this question on the Natural Birth board a couple weeks ago and got some really helpful answers. I don't know too well how to link to things on here, but one girl gave me some great articles to read on the ACOG guidelines that were really reassuring for me. If it's possible to search, maybe check back a couple weeks on there?
I had a fairly high number after my 1-hour, and they told me I also failed my 3-hour, but never did share those numbers with me, so I don't know if I was borderline or just without question GD...either way, I am testing 4x a day and following the diet. So far, it is working pretty well and I had an appt last week for the first time since I've been monitoring, and they are very happy with the numbers. They said if I can keep it that well-controlled, I should have no problems having a med-free birth. Good luck!
I'm in the same boat.
I had 2 abnormal levels and 2 normal levels on the 3 hour test so I was diagnosed. I am desperately trying to keep my sugars under control so I can have the natural birth I want.
I think if I am put on meds I will definitely be induced. If I am not medicated, I think my doc will have a hard time letting me go past my due date without being induced but there is more leeway.
I'm doing ok on the diet and my numbers have been normal all day, I am just working on bringing down my fasting levels. I'm also walking 2 miles a day (trying to get up to 4, wish I had more time to walk!) which is supposed to help.
The most important thing I can tell you is to stay positive! I have been really depressed about this and how it has changed my plan (possibly) for a natural birth and can tell you the negativity has gotten me nowhere! Also, I have heard that the anxiety only raises your blood sugar. Oy!
Good luck to you. Stay in the positive!
I am fairly short (5'3") and worried about this too. My son was born at 38w 3d and he was almost 8 pounds. So he likely would have been over 9 pounds had he gone to 40 weeks.
Anyway, I had a totally natural birth. No pain meds. It was doable! Just do a lot of research, ask questions, and surround yourself with people who are knowledgable, confident, and compassionate. You can do it!