Knowing the signs of gestational diabetes can bring peace of mind, as it allows you to get the right help faster. Gestational diabetes (also known as GDM) means that blood sugar levels are too high during pregnancy. The important thing is that many people do not experience clear symptoms, which is why screening and blood tests play a central role in Danish antenatal care. If you are unsure about symptoms or risk factors, it is always best to speak with your midwife or GP to be assessed and possibly tested.

The symptoms typically associated with high blood sugar can also occur in a completely normal pregnancy. Therefore, "signs" can be difficult to interpret on their own.

Be extra vigilant and discuss it with your healthcare professional if you experience:

• Pronounced thirst and drinking more than usual.
• Frequent urination beyond what might otherwise be common in pregnancy.
• Unusual fatigue, which feels more significant than expected.
• Blurred vision or periods of "foggy vision."
• Frequent signs of infection, e.g., discomfort from yeast infections or repeated urinary tract problems (should be assessed by a doctor).

According to patient information from, among others, Sundhed.dk (Lægehåndbogen) and the Danish Diabetes Association, it is precisely a point that many people do not have definite symptoms, and therefore gestational diabetes is often detected through testing.

In Denmark, you will typically be offered an assessment based on risk factors and, if necessary, an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). The test can vary in timing and practice, but is often performed in the middle of pregnancy or earlier if there is an increased risk.

If you are called in for a test, you might consider:

• Asking about preparation (e.g., whether you need to fast).
• Noting down your questions in advance: “What does the result mean?” and “What are the next steps if the test is elevated?”
• Arranging how you will receive the results and who you can contact afterward.

Even without symptoms, you may be in a group where screening is relevant. Risk factors can include, for example:

• Gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy
• Diabetes in close family
• Previous birth of a very large baby (assessed by healthcare professionals)
• High BMI before pregnancy
• Other factors your doctor or midwife deems relevant

If you have one or more risk factors, it is a good idea to have an early talk with your midwife or doctor about a plan for testing and follow-up.

If you think "this could be a sign of gestational diabetes," the most helpful next step is to clarify it with a professional rather than guessing yourself.

1. Contact your GP or midwife and specifically state which symptoms you are experiencing.
2. Ask if you should have your blood sugar measured or be offered an OGTT.
3. If you are diagnosed with GDM, the plan will often include dietary advice, measurements, and in some cases, medical treatment, depending on your values (always tailored individually).

Signs can include thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision, but many have no clear symptoms. Therefore, testing and screening are important. Talk to your midwife or doctor if you are concerned.

Yes. It is well-described in patient information from Danish health sources that gestational diabetes is often detected through testing because symptoms may be absent or resemble common pregnancy discomforts.

The course of action is planned by your team and may include dietary changes, physical activity as agreed, and blood sugar monitoring. Some may also need medical treatment. The goal is to keep blood sugar within the targets provided by the healthcare professionals.

If you are undergoing investigation or treatment, everyday comfort can mean a lot, especially as the body changes rapidly. Many pregnant women choose soft, flexible solutions such as maternity clothing and support, for example, from the Maternity collection. If you need relief around your stomach and lower back in everyday life, a support belt can also be relevant, such as the Maternity Support Belt.

Sundhed.dk (Lægehåndbogen) on gestational diabetes, Diabetesforeningen (diabetes.dk) on gestational diabetes, and patient guidelines from Danish hospitals (e.g., AUH) on GDM pathways and follow-up.