Why I Created Higedi: A Gestational Diabetes App Connecting Women

Hey there, fellow mamas and mamas-to-be!

I’m Julija — nice to meet you! Today, I want to share the personal journey that inspired me to create HIgedi, a social health app dedicated to connecting women navigating the often confusing and isolating world of gestational diabetes.

HIgedi is not another diabetes tracker; it is a tool to help you strive for the healthiest pregnancy. At its core, HIgedi is built around food — because a healthy diet (meals and snacks) play a crucial role in managing blood sugar during pregnancy. The app is a community and a safe space where you can find others walking a similar path, ask questions, share wins and struggles, and receive genuine support without judgment. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or managing gestational diabetes for the second, third or fourth time, HIgedi is here for you with open arms and understanding hearts.

My Gestational Diabetes Journey: Driving Through Unknown Streets

In February 2021, I found out I was pregnant through IVF — a journey in itself due to PCOS. At first, it was pure joy mixed with nervous excitement. But by week nine, a warning sign popped up: my fasting blood sugar was higher than expected. That was a shock. I was thin, ate well, had no family history of diabetes — yet gestational diabetes came knocking. I had no noticeable symptoms, which made the diagnosis even more surprising.

By May 2021, gestational diabetes diagnosis was confirmed. I learned that gestational diabetes isn’t a lifestyle failure or just genetics—it’s tied to the placenta and affects over 1 in 10 pregnancies.

Managing gestational diabetes was like learning to drive in a new city — unfamiliar, stressful, and sometimes overwhelming. From May through October 2021, I controlled my blood sugar through diet alone, making major changes and learning what worked for my body. While I had the support of my husband and family, I craved connection with other women who truly understood the daily ups and downs.

In October, I faced another hurdle: preeclampsia. Monitoring my blood pressure became crucial during this time. This led to an induction at 38 weeks, and on October 21st, 2021, my “sugar baby” was born — with perfect blood sugar levels for both of us. The relief was immense. And by October 23rd, I happily indulged in my favorite ice cream—celebrating that moment of freedom.

From Experience to Empowerment: The Birth of HIgedi

Even after my pregnancy, I couldn’t stop thinking about gestational diabetes management — how isolating it can be, and how many women don’t get the support they need. In May 2022, the idea for HIgedi was born.

Over the next months, I researched, planned, and poured my heart into building a space that felt like the community I wished I’d had. Development started in July 2022, and after lots of testing, HIgedi soft-launched in December 2023.

HIgedi might still have its quirks, but it’s a labor of love designed to help women connect, share, and thrive through gestational diabetes—especially around the food challenges that are at the heart of this condition. Your feedback shapes the app, making it a better resource for all of us.

You’re Not Alone

Gestational diabetes is tough. It’s confusing, isolating, and stressful. But you don’t have to do it alone.

If you’re currently pregnant with gestational diabetes or have experienced it in the past and know the hurdles, come join us! Download the app, share your meals and snacks that have helped you manage your blood glucose levels, ask for adjustments or recommendations, share helpful grocery finds, or simply be there to support one another. It’s so much easier when we face it together.

Together, through shared stories, advice, and support, we can make this journey easier and more hopeful.

Let’s build this community, one step at a time. 🫶