Gestational Diabetes

What causes gestational diabetes?

Diabetes occurs when your body does not make enough or becomes resistant to insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar.

The exact cause of gestational diabetes is not known. One theory is that hormones produced by the placenta can block the action of the mother’s insulin and lead to insulin resistance. Gestational diabetes can also develop when the body cannot make the insulin it needs. Without insulin, sugar is not converted to energy and can build up in the blood.

Gestational diabetes risk factors

Gestational diabetes impacts 2% to 10% of pregnancies in the United States. Risk factors for gestational diabetes include:

• Age, race and ethnicity: Higher risk if over 35 years or if Black, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander.
• Overweight: Increased risk if overweight/obese before pregnancy or if you gain excessive weight during pregnancy. Discuss healthy eating and weight management with your doctor.
• Current health: Sedentary lifestyle and high triglyceride levels may increase risk. A healthy lifestyle can lower it.
• Previous pregnancies: Higher risk if you had gestational diabetes or a large baby in previous pregnancies.
• Family history: Genetic factors may contribute to gestational diabetes. Risk is higher if a close relative has diabetes.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Women with PCOS have a greater chance of developing gestational diabetes and other pregnancy complications.

Gestational diabetes treatments

If you have gestational diabetes, your healthcare provider will schedule more frequent checkups to closely monitor both you and your baby. You may undergo tests such as a nonstress test and a biophysical profile to ensure you and your baby are healthy.

A diagnosis of gestational diabetes might seem worrying, but you can manage the condition with lifestyle changes, blood sugar monitoring and medication.

How can I prevent gestational diabetes?

Preventing gestational diabetes isn't guaranteed, but adopting healthy habits before pregnancy can help. If you've had gestational diabetes, these choices may lower your risk in future pregnancies or for developing Type 2 diabetes:

• Eat healthy foods: Choose high-fiber, low-fat and low-calorie options. Focus on fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Variety helps you meet your goals without sacrificing taste or nutrition. Be mindful of portion sizes.
• Stay active: Regular exercise before and during pregnancy can reduce your risk. Work towards 30 minutes of moderate activity most days. Brisk walking, cycling and swimming are great options. Short bursts of activity, like parking farther away or taking walk breaks, also count.
• Start pregnancy at a healthy weight: If you're planning to conceive, losing excess weight beforehand may lead to a healthier pregnancy. Develop lasting healthy eating habits, like increasing your vegetable and fruit servings.
• Manage weight gain: Some weight gain during pregnancy is normal, but gaining too much too quickly can raise your risk of gestational diabetes. Talk to your healthcare provider for personalized weight gain recommendations.