7.7 Understanding the Impact of Gestational Diabetes on Surrogacy | GSHC

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is a condition that may develop during pregnancy due to natural hormonal changes that affect insulin sensitivity, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. The encouraging news is that when GDM is effectively managed through a healthy diet and lifestyle—often referred to as diet-controlled GDM—it is not a disqualifying factor for surrogacy. Many surrogates have successfully managed this condition and experienced healthy, fulfilling pregnancies.

Understanding Gestational Diabetes

What It Is and Why It Happens:

During pregnancy, increased levels of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone are essential for nurturing your baby. These hormonal shifts can temporarily reduce your body’s responsiveness to insulin, resulting in higher blood sugar levels. Healthcare professionals note that gestational diabetes exists on a spectrum. The mildest cases—those that can be effectively managed with a healthy diet and regular exercise, often with support from a dietitian—are generally considered lower risk. In contrast, if insulin injections are required to control blood sugar, it indicates a more severe form of GDM. In clinical practice, experts typically feel more comfortable with surrogates whose gestational diabetes is controlled by diet alone, as this reflects a manageable condition. This understanding reinforces that diet-controlled GDM, especially when previous pregnancies resulted in healthy babies, is acceptable in surrogacy. For most women, this condition is temporary and can be effectively managed through lifestyle adjustments.

Key Considerations:

• Temporary and Manageable: GDM usually resolves after delivery, and when managed with diet and exercise, it remains well controlled.
• Effective Management: A balanced diet and regular physical activity help keep blood sugar levels stable, minimizing potential risks associated with GDM.

Qualification for Surrogacy

A comprehensive medical evaluation is a critical part of the surrogacy process at GSHC. If you have a history of diet-controlled gestational diabetes from a previous pregnancy—with healthy baby outcomes—it is generally considered acceptable. This history demonstrates that you have effectively managed your blood sugar levels, underscoring your readiness and strength as a surrogate mother.

Managing a Healthy Pregnancy

Once qualified for surrogacy, managing gestational diabetes becomes an integral aspect of your pregnancy care:

• Proactive Management: Adhering to a tailored meal plan and exercise regimen minimizes potential risks associated with GDM.
• Collaborative Care: Your healthcare team—which includes obstetricians, maternal-fetal medicine specialists, nutritionists, and counselors—will work with you to ensure personalized and compassionate care.
• Ongoing Surveillance: Regular prenatal check-ups and post-delivery follow-up care are essential to monitor your health and ensure a smooth transition after pregnancy.

Looking Forward with Confidence

Diet-controlled gestational diabetes is a manageable condition that many surrogate mothers have successfully navigated. With the right strategies and support in place, you can confidently embrace your surrogacy journey. At GSHC, we recognize your strength and commitment in managing GDM, and our comprehensive support system is here to help you achieve a safe and healthy pregnancy.

Your journey as a surrogate mother is valued, and managing GDM effectively plays a crucial role in creating families. Embrace this journey with confidence, knowing that you are part of a community that thrives on resilience and professional care.