What Does Hypoglycemia Do to Fetal Growth?

Hypoglycemia is the term for low-blood sugar and occurs when blood-glucose levels drop below normal limits. Hypoglycemia can cause nervousness, shaky feelings, rapid heartbeat, dizziness and fainting. If you are pregnant, it is important to keep your glucose levels normalized. The fetus can be affected if blood-glucose levels either rise too high or fall below normal limits, especially if they stay there.

Growth Retardation

• According to studies published in Pubmed Abstract, hypoglycemia itself does not retard growth of a fetus. If the problem is not treated or worsens, though, hypoglycemia can lead to other medical problems. One of them can be preeclampsia. Hypoglycemia can be a precursor to preeclampsia, which can slow or stop fetal growth.

Preeclampsia

• Preeclampsia can be dangerous to both mother and fetus. It is a rapid and progressive condition characterized by high-blood pressure, as well as the presence of protein in the urine. Significant signs that point to preeclampsia are swelling, a sudden gain in weight, headaches and vision changes. The fetus can stop growing.
  Because hypoglycemia can lead to preeclampsia, it is important to monitor your blood-sugar levels and possibly change your diet to include 300 more calories per day, along with 30 more grams of protein. You should also get plenty of carbohydrates in the morning and snack often throughout the day.