The government currently subsidizes 14 public prenatal checkups for pregnant women, including gestational diabetes screening during the 24th to 28th weeks of pregnancy. According to the National Health Agency, 17.4% of pregnant women screened show abnormal results. To protect the health of both mothers and babies, the agency urges regular prenatal checkups and adopting the "4 Tips for Blood Sugar Control": maintaining a healthy weight, balanced diet, moderate exercise, and blood sugar monitoring.
Gestational Diabetes Risks and Impacts
Research indicates that gestational diabetes significantly increases risks of cesarean delivery, premature birth, and fetal overgrowth by 1.16 times, 1.51 times, and 1.57 times, respectively. Early screening and intervention can reduce these risks. The National Health Agency advises expectant mothers to attend regular prenatal checkups and follow these "4 Tips for Blood Sugar Control" to ensure maternal and fetal health.
Regular Prenatal Checkups and 4 Tips for Blood Sugar Control: Safeguarding Maternal and Infant Health (Image/Source: Ministry of Health and Welfare Website)
4 Tips for Blood Sugar Control
★ Healthy Weight: Weight gain during pregnancy should align with pre-pregnancy BMI. For those with a BMI of 18.5–24.9, a healthy weight gain of about 11.5–16 kg is recommended. Refer to the "Maternal Health Education Handbook" and consult your doctor for tailored advice.
★ Balanced Diet: Pregnant women should consume a balanced mix of six food groups and avoid high-calorie snacks. Opt for healthy, low-calorie options like plain seaweed, unsweetened soy milk, or fresh fruits.
★ Moderate Exercise: Engage in exercise at least three times a week, for 30 to 60 minutes each session, in well-ventilated, safe environments. To avoid hypoglycemia, consider consuming a small carbohydrate snack, such as soda crackers or milk, before exercising.
★ Blood Sugar Monitoring: For those diagnosed with gestational diabetes, monitor blood sugar at least four times daily (once fasting and once after each meal). Target levels are fasting <95 mg/dL, one-hour post-meal <140 mg/dL, and two hours post-meal <120 mg/dL.
Stay Informed to Safeguard Maternal and Fetal Health
The 14 government-subsidized prenatal checkups include gestational diabetes screening, with detailed schedules outlined in the "Maternal Health Handbook." Additionally, the agency promotes the "Daddy's Guide to Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Parenting Education" to encourage fathers' involvement in maternal health management and parenting preparation. For more information, visit the Healthy 99+ Website - Mommy's Good Pregnancy Hub" website or call the free maternal health consultation line at 0800-870-870.
