Gestational Diabetes During Surrogacy: What to Expect and How to Navigate It
Gestational diabetes is one of the most common complications in pregnancy, including surrogate pregnancies. If you’re a surrogate or planning to become one, a diagnosis like this can bring up a lot of emotions: worry, frustration, and maybe even guilt. But it’s important to remember this isn’t something you caused — and it doesn’t mean your journey won’t still be smooth, healthy, and successful.
With the right support and care, many surrogates manage gestational diabetes with ease and go on to have wonderful experiences. Here’s what to expect if it becomes part of your journey.
Why Gestational Diabetes Is Closely Monitored in Surrogacy
Because gestational surrogates are required to have had at least one prior pregnancy, most are already familiar with gestational diabetes screenings, typically done between 24 and 28 weeks. While the condition is relatively common and often manageable, it’s taken especially seriously in surrogacy to ensure the healthiest possible outcome for both the surrogate and the baby.
Gestational diabetes occurs when the body can’t produce enough insulin during pregnancy, causing elevated blood sugar. While it’s often temporary, it can raise the risk of complications like high birth weight, preterm delivery, or preeclampsia if left unmanaged. For surrogates, who are already taking every step to protect the baby’s health, monitoring and managing gestational diabetes is just another way to ensure a safe and healthy outcome.
The good news? With the right care team and support system, most surrogates with gestational diabetes go on to have smooth, complication-free pregnancies.
Continuous Monitoring
One of the most important tools in managing gestational diabetes is regular monitoring. Most surrogates are asked to check their blood sugar levels several times a day using a glucose meter, and sometimes track urine ketones as well. It might feel like a big adjustment at first, but over time, it becomes part of your daily rhythm and a powerful way to protect both your health and the baby’s.
Making Pregnancy-Friendly Lifestyle Adjustments
A balanced diet is key to keeping blood sugar stable. You may be asked to follow a meal plan that includes plenty of whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables, and fiber-rich fruits, while limiting added sugars and processed carbs. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can also help avoid blood sugar spikes.
Staying active is another important piece. Safe, low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga can make a big difference and help you feel strong and energized during pregnancy.
Open Communication and Support
Managing gestational diabetes is never something you have to face alone. Surrogacy agencies often provide access to experienced coordinators, registered dietitians, and diabetes educators who can help you navigate every part of the process. And if you ever feel unsure, there’s always someone you can reach out to for guidance.
It’s also helpful to keep an open line of communication with the intended parents. Keeping them informed about how things are going and what you need can strengthen trust and help everyone feel more connected to the journey.
We’re Here to Support You, Every Step of the Way
To effectively manage gestational diabetes and ensure a successful pregnancy and delivery, surrogates should monitor their condition, maintain a balanced diet, and engage in regular exercise. Additionally, communication and support from both the intended parents and the surrogacy agency are essential.
At West Coast Surrogacy, we prioritize personalized care for both intended parents and surrogates throughout every step of the surrogacy process, including assistance in navigating gestational diabetes. Contact us today to learn more about gestational diabetes and surrogacy, or to schedule an appointment with our dedicated team.
