getting diabetes in the future.
Getting checked for diabetes is important because type 2 diabetes shows few symptoms. The only way to know for sure that you don’t have type 2 diabetes is to have a blood test. “Unfortunately, most women do not return for this important screening test,” says Thomas. Keeping your weight within a healthy range and keeping up regular, moderate physical activity after your baby is born can also help lower your risk for type 2 diabetes.
Postpartum depression can affect any woman regardless of age, race, ethnicity, or economic status. Because gestational diabetes may increase your risk of depression, it’s important to be screened for postpartum depression. Many states mandate postpartum depression screening in all women when they return for their initial postpartum visit.
Thomas says, “At my facility, the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale is used. This simple test consisting of 10 questions, is administered by the social worker. Based on the score of these questions, a woman may be identified at risk for postpartum depression.”
If you are diagnosed with postpartum depression, it’s essential to get treatment as soon as possible. In addition to