Let’s get real for a second: gestational diabetes (GD) can feel like a punch to the gut. If you’ve ever stared at your glucose meter and thought, “What did I do wrong?”—you are so not alone. But here’s the truth I wish every mama heard from day one: Gestational diabetes is not a personal failure.
So many of us hear “diabetes” and instantly feel shame, guilt, or fear. It’s time to flip that script. Gestational diabetes happens because of pregnancy hormones and genetics—not because you ate the wrong thing or didn’t try hard enough.
Gestational diabetes develops because pregnancy hormones can make it harder for your body to use insulin, and genetics play a big role, too. In fact, research shows that most cases of gestational diabetes are caused by normal changes in how your body processes sugar during pregnancy—not by anything you did or didn’t do. If you’ve ever blamed yourself, please know: this is a medical condition, not a personal failure. Learn more from the CDC.
I learned this the hard way, but once I stopped blaming myself, everything changed.
Words matter. When we talk about “failing” a glucose test or “bad” blood sugar numbers, it chips away at our confidence. Let’s start using words that build us up instead:
“I’m learning what works for my body.”
“This number is information, not a grade.”
“I’m doing my best, and that’s enough.”
“I’m flexible and open to trying new foods or routines.”
“Now I know my body can’t handle this particular carb very well—I’ll pick another one next time.”
“Looks like this meal didn’t work for me. That’s okay, I’ll try something different tomorrow.”
You don’t have to be perfect. There’s no gold star for never having a high reading. Your worth as a mom is not measured by your blood sugar. What matters is caring, showing up, and doing your best (even on tough days).
Be gentle with yourself. Would you judge a friend for something out of their control? Of course not.
If someone makes a comment that stings, remember: they don’t see your daily effort. And if you need a little help handling those tough conversations, check out the guide on how to handle comments about pregnancy food choices.
Share your story. The more we talk openly about gestational diabetes, the more we break the stigma for every mama who comes after us.
If you’re feeling defeated today, please hear this: you are not a failure. You are resourceful, resilient, and doing something amazing for yourself and your baby. Gestational diabetes is just one part of your story—it doesn’t define you.
You’re doing so much better than you think, and you’re never alone in this. No matter what your numbers say or what anyone else thinks, you are showing up for yourself and your baby every single day. That’s something to be proud of.
If you ever need a little extra encouragement, more real talk, or just someone who truly understands, the HIgedi community is always here for you. We’re in this together—one day, one meal, one deep breath at a time.
With care and understanding,
— Julija
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