Gestational Diabetes Symptoms During Pregnancy: What to Know

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a condition where blood sugar levels become higher than normal during pregnancy, usually identified in the second or third trimester. It affects how the body processes glucose due to hormonal changes that reduce insulin sensitivity.

In many cases, gestational diabetes does not cause noticeable symptoms. This is why screening tests during pregnancy—such as the glucose tolerance test—are so important. Still, being aware of possible symptoms can help expectant mothers recognize when something might need medical attention.

Common Symptoms of Gestational Diabetes

Most women with gestational diabetes feel normal, but when symptoms do occur, they tend to overlap with general pregnancy experiences. The difference is that these signs may be more persistent or intense.

1. Increased Thirst (Polydipsia)
You may feel unusually thirsty throughout the day, even after drinking water. This happens because the body is trying to flush out excess glucose through urine.

2. Frequent Urination (Polyuria)
While frequent urination is common in pregnancy, very frequent or excessive urination can indicate that your kidneys are excreting extra sugar.

3. Unusual Fatigue
Tiredness is expected during pregnancy, but extreme or persistent fatigue—especially if it feels disproportionate to your activity level—can be a sign of unstable blood sugar.

4. Blurred Vision
Fluctuating blood sugar levels can affect fluid balance in the eyes, leading to temporary changes in vision. Persistent or severe visual changes should always be reported to your doctor.

5. Increased Hunger (Polyphagia)
Feeling hungry soon after eating, or craving more carbohydrates than usual, can be due to your body’s cells not getting enough glucose despite high blood sugar levels.

Less Common or Atypical Symptoms

Some women may experience symptoms that are less typical but can be associated with blood sugar imbalance:

1. Recurrent Infections
High blood sugar can make the body more prone to infections such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) or yeast infections.

2. Nausea or Episodes of Vomiting
Though nausea is common in early pregnancy, persistent nausea in the later trimesters—especially when accompanied by other symptoms—may be worth mentioning to your healthcare provider.

3. Tingling Sensation in Hands or Feet
While uncommon, nerve-related symptoms can sometimes occur when blood sugar levels are not well controlled.

When to Be Concerned

Having one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean you have gestational diabetes. Many of these changes are also part of a normal pregnancy.
However, you should inform your obstetrician if you experience:

• Excessive thirst or urination that interferes with daily life
• Persistent fatigue that does not improve with rest
• Recurrent infections
• Blurred vision or sudden changes in eyesight

Your doctor may recommend a glucose screening test, which is routinely done between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy, or earlier if you have risk factors such as a family history of diabetes, higher BMI, or previous GDM.

Key Takeaway

Gestational diabetes often develops quietly, without clear symptoms. Routine screening and regular prenatal check-ups remain the most reliable ways to detect it early.
If you do notice any unusual or persistent symptoms, it’s best to discuss them with your healthcare provider rather than self-diagnose.