E.~
You've gotten great answers and they're right on target. I had gestational diabetes with both pregnancies but was able to control it with change in diet. I was 36 with my first successful pregnancy and 40 with the second.
One thing that I haven't seen in any of the answers is that IF you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, your chances of developing Type 2 increase by 25% each time you're diagnosed.
My chances are 50% because of my gestational diabetes. Heredity also enters into it. My Dad and uncle are type 2 diabetic. My Dad has controlled his with diet modification and exercise for over 25 years. My uncle on the other hand wouldn't change his diet (which is very poor) and is on insulin.
I take my glucose levels on a regular basis and so far have been able to keep mine lowered with diet and exercise. I'm not trying to discourage you, in my opinion, knowledge is power. I don't ever want my sugar levels to get out of whack without my knowledge. By taking it frequently, I feel like I'm staying on top of it.
The nutritionist I used advocated making sure if I had fruit to balance it with a protein. Like the others have stated, you will be sent to a nutritionist and will have to keep up with your levels. It's not hard and it's a very healthy way to eat even after the baby is born. After both my babies, my blood sugar returned to normal as well.
Blessings to you!
L.