A patient in the third trimester with gestational diabetes can expect which change regarding their insulin needs?

During the third trimester of pregnancy, insulin needs typically increase consistently due to hormonal changes and the growing demands of the fetus. As pregnancy progresses, the placenta produces hormones such as cortisol, estrogen, and progesterone, which can lead to increased insulin resistance. This means that the body may require more insulin to effectively manage blood glucose levels.

Gestational diabetes can exacerbate these changes, necessitating close monitoring and potential adjustments to the insulin regimen. As the placenta continues to mature and provide nutrients to the fetus, the increased demand for glucose results in the need for higher insulin levels to maintain glycemic control. Therefore, a patient with gestational diabetes in the third trimester can expect their insulin requirement to rise.

Understanding this progression is crucial for managing gestational diabetes effectively, as it aligns with the physiological changes occurring in both the mother and the fetus during this stage of pregnancy.