Diabetology
At Rao Hospital, our Diabetology department is designed to address the unique health needs of women at every stage of life.
We provide specialized care for the prevention, diagnosis, and management of diabetes, with a strong focus on holistic well-being.
What is Diabetes?
At Rao Hospital, our Diabetology department is dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care tailored to the unique health needs of women throughout their lives. We understand that diabetes affects women differently, influencing reproductive health, pregnancy outcomes, and overall quality of life. Our specialized services focus on the prevention, early detection, and advanced management of all types of diabetes, including type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. We believe in a holistic approach that combines medical treatment with lifestyle guidance, nutritional counseling, and emotional support to help women achieve optimal health and maintain long-term well-being.
What is Gestational Diabetes?
Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy due to hormonal changes affecting insulin use, leading to high blood sugar levels. If not properly managed, it can cause complications such as excessive birth weight, preterm delivery, and low blood sugar in newborns. It also increases the mother’s risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy and type 2 diabetes later in life.
At Rao Hospital, we focus on early screening — usually between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy or earlier for high-risk women — to ensure timely detection and intervention. Once diagnosed, our multidisciplinary team of obstetricians, diabetologists, endocrinologists, and dietitians works together to provide comprehensive, personalized care. We guide each mother through lifestyle modifications, including a balanced diet plan, safe exercise routines, and frequent blood sugar monitoring. When necessary, medication or insulin therapy is introduced to maintain optimal sugar levels. We also provide ongoing emotional support and education to empower expectant mothers to take control of their health.With close monitoring and continuous support, we help mothers manage their condition confidently, ensuring a safe pregnancy and a healthy start for their baby.
Uncontrolled Blood Sugar
Uncontrolled blood sugar can have a profound impact on overall health, but it is especially significant for women. In women, high blood sugar can worsen hormonal imbalances, particularly in those with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome). This can lead to irregular or missed periods, excessive hair growth, acne, weight gain, and serious challenges with fertility. Over time, it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other metabolic complications. Additionally, uncontrolled blood sugar can affect pregnancy outcomes, raising the risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and complications during delivery. Maintaining stable sugar levels is essential for protecting reproductive health, supporting a healthy menstrual cycle, and improving chances of conception.
In men, high blood sugar can also cause weight gain, fatigue, reduced muscle strength, and sexual health problems such as erectile dysfunction and decreased testosterone levels. Over the long term, it increases the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
At Rao Hospital, we focus on empowering both women and men to take control of their blood sugar through personalized lifestyle guidance, medical support, and continuous monitoring. By keeping blood sugar levels in check, individuals can improve hormonal balance, protect heart health, support reproductive function, and enhance overall well-being.
Managing diabetes or concerned about blood sugar control?
Timely evaluation and ongoing care can help prevent complications.
FAQs
What are the symptoms of diabetes and how can I tell if I have it?
Common symptoms of diabetes include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and blurred vision. If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to consult a diabetologist for testing, including blood sugar and HbA1c tests.
What types of diabetes are there, and what are the differences?
There are three main types of diabetes: Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes. Type 1 is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells. Type 2 is related to insulin resistance, and gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy, often resolving after delivery but increasing the risk of Type 2 later in life.
How is diabetes diagnosed and what tests are used?
Diabetes is typically diagnosed through blood tests such as fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, and oral glucose tolerance tests. These tests measure your blood sugar levels and help determine if you have diabetes or are at risk of developing it.
How is gestational diabetes diagnosed?
It’s usually diagnosed through a glucose tolerance test between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy, or earlier if you’re at higher risk.
Will I need a C-section if I have gestational diabetes?
Managing diabetes involves a combination of diet, regular exercise, monitoring blood sugar levels, and sometimes medication or insulin. A balanced diet rich in fiber, low in processed sugars, and regular physical activity can significantly improve glucose control.
Does having gestational diabetes mean I’ll get diabetes later?
Women with gestational diabetes are at a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life. Regular follow-up after delivery is recommended.
Can insulin resistance cause infertility?
Yes. Insulin resistance can interfere with ovulation, making it harder to conceive. It’s commonly seen in women with PCOS.
