A nurse is discussing the long-term implications of gestational diabetes with a client.

The nurse explains that gestational diabetes increases the risk of developing which type of diabetes in the future?

The correct answer is choice C. Regular exercise can help control blood sugar levels.This is because exercise can improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood glucose levels.Exercise is an important part of lifestyle modifications for women with gestational diabetes, along with dietary changes.

Choice A is wrong because carbohydrates are an essential macronutrient that provide energy and nutrients for the mother and the fetus.Women with gestational diabetes should not avoid all carbohydrates, but rather choose complex carbohydrates that have a low glycemic index and limit the portion size.

Choice B is wrong because a sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes after gestational diabetes.Women with gestational diabetes should be encouraged to be physically active for at least 30 minutes a day, most days of the week.

Choice D is wrong because monitoring blood glucose levels regularly is essential for managing gestational diabetes and preventing complications.Women with gestational diabetes should check their blood glucose levels at least four times a day: before breakfast and one hour after each meal.

The correct answer is choice B.Gestational diabetes primarily affects the baby’s growth and development.Gestational diabetes is a condition in which women develop high blood sugar during pregnancy due to hormonal changes or insufficient insulin production.This can cause the baby to grow larger than usual, which can lead to difficulties during delivery and increase the risk of cesarean section.It can also cause other complications for the baby, such as low blood sugar, jaundice, respiratory distress syndrome, and future diabetes.

Choice A is wrong because gestational diabetes does not affect blood pressure levels during pregnancy.However, high blood pressure during pregnancy can be a sign of another condition called preeclampsia, which can also cause complications for the mother and the baby.

Choice C is wrong because gestational diabetes does not affect the woman’s ability to produce insulin.

Rather, it affects how the cells use insulin to control blood sugar levels.The woman may need to take insulin injections or oral medications to manage her blood sugar levels during pregnancy.

Choice D is wrong because gestational diabetes does not affect the woman’s blood sugar levels after giving birth.

In most cases, gestational diabetes goes away after the baby is born.However, the woman may have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Normal ranges for blood sugar levels during pregnancy are:

• Before meals: 95 mg/dL or less

• One hour after meals: 140 mg/dL or less

• Two hours after meals: 120 mg/dL or less