# Gestational Diabetes in the second trimester

Source: https://www.pregnancypowerhour.com/trimester-conditions/gestational-diabetes-in-second-trimester
Last updated: 2026-07-15

> The second trimester is when screening for gestational diabetes typically occurs, as increasing placental hormones can challenge your body's ability to manage blood sugar.

## Why it shows up this trimester

Around the second trimester, your body is undergoing significant hormonal shifts to support your growing baby. Hormones like human placental lactogen (hPL), progesterone, and estrogen are rising, and while essential for pregnancy, they can also make your cells more resistant to insulin. Insulin is the hormone that helps glucose (sugar) from your food enter your cells for energy. When your body becomes more insulin resistant, your pancreas has to work harder to produce enough insulin to keep your blood sugar levels balanced. For some, the pancreas can't keep up, leading to higher blood sugar levels, which is what we call gestational diabetes.

This is why the screening for gestational diabetes usually happens between weeks 24 and 28. It's the window when these hormonal changes are often most pronounced, making it the most accurate time to assess how your body is managing glucose.

## What it tends to feel like now

One of the challenging aspects of gestational diabetes is that it often doesn't present with noticeable symptoms. Many individuals feel perfectly fine, which is why screening is such an important part of your prenatal care. However, if blood sugar levels are significantly elevated, some people might experience symptoms that can also be common in pregnancy, such as increased thirst, more frequent urination, or fatigue. It's always helpful to mention any new or persistent symptoms to your care provider, even if they seem minor.

## What helps in this window

If you're diagnosed with gestational diabetes, the focus often shifts to managing blood sugar levels through gentle, practical approaches. One option might be to work with a registered dietitian or a certified diabetes educator to create a personalized eating plan that supports steady blood sugar. This often involves focusing on balanced meals with complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Incorporating gentle, regular movement, like a daily walk after meals, can also be very supportive in helping your body use glucose more effectively. Monitoring your blood sugar levels as advised by your provider helps you and your care team understand how your body is responding to different foods and activities.

## Working with your care team

Your care team is your primary resource for navigating gestational diabetes. They will guide you through the screening process, interpret your results, and help you develop a management plan if needed. This plan might include dietary adjustments, recommendations for physical activity, and potentially medication if lifestyle changes alone aren't sufficient. Remember, you get to decide what feels right for you, in collaboration with your provider. Asking questions and seeking clarity on your options can help you feel confident and informed throughout this process. Your provider is your best resource for your specific situation.