HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Can Gestational Diabetes Cause Neonatal Death?

Posted on Mon, 12 Sep 2016

Question: I am 35 years old and on second baby. I am currently 38 weeks and 4 days pregnant. I also have Gestational diabetes controlled with diet this pregnancy. I am being induced in 3 days at 39 weeks. Just wondering if that is better or worse for the baby? She has been measuring 1 week behind on tape measure and 50th percentile by scan. Otherwise she seems fine. Will she be ready to be forced out or is the risk less if we wait? thanks!

Answered by Dr. Soumya (6 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
You can wait

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I understand your concerns.

I don't see why you are being induced. You can wait for another week atleast. Waiting for another week will not harm baby. Forcing out so soon is not necessary.

Let me know if you need anymore help.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Soumya (19 minutes later)

Thank you. what are the specific risk factors that may be causing them to want to induce at 39 weeks? Is it the maternal age, the gestational diabetes or both? Also, what is the increased risk of stillborn at my age?

thank!

Answered by Dr. Soumya (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
No risk of stillbirth

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

There is no risk of stillbirth. Don't worry about it.

Only risk factor for early induction being gestational diabetes or large baby. Since your diabetes is controlled by only diet and not insulin, I suggest you wait another week atleast.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar