Up to 14 percent of expectant mothers cannot produce the extra insulin needed during pregnancy*, causing gestational diabetes. This occurs in pregnant women with or without a prior history of diabetes, usually in the middle of the gestation period.
How it affects mom and baby
A woman with gestational diabetes may deliver a baby with increased birth weight due to high blood sugar. Increased birthweight can make natural delivery difficult and require a cesarean section (C-section). Recovery from a C-section generally takes longer than with natural birth.
Gestational diabetes can increase risk of preeclampsia (high blood pressure), which can increase risk of premature delivery, or cause the mother to have a seizure or stroke during labor and delivery. Newborns may develop hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar.
Your risk factors
You could be at higher risk of developing gestational diabetes if you:
- Have a family history of diabetes
- Have prediabetes
- Gain excessive weight during pregnancy
- Are overweight or obese when you become pregnant
- Previously had gestational diabetes
- Are African American, American Indian, Asian American, Hispanic / Latina or Pacific Islander American
Possible prevention measures
There is no sure way to avoid gestational diabetes, but being healthy prior to pregnancy may help lower your risk. Consult with your doctor to plan and set goals.
“The hand that holds the fork holds the future,” OB/GYN Judith Hoover, MD advises. “The food industry makes unhealthy food look so inviting. A lot of things that look nutritious are really not. Read the labels.” She recommends attaining a BMI of 25 before becoming pregnant.
*Centers for Disease Control and Prevention