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Last Updated on May 5, 2023 by Team THIP
Pregnancy-related diabetes could pose serious risks to the mother and her baby. In addition, if left untreated, a woman with GDM (gestational diabetes mellitus) is more susceptible to various complications. In this article, we will discuss the risk factors for developing gestational diabetes and whether all women with these risk factors develop gestational diabetes.
What are the risk factors for developing gestational diabetes?
Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy and usually disappears after giving birth. Any woman can develop GDM, but you are at risk if:
- your body mass index (BMI) is above 30, i.e., if you are overweight or obese before pregnancy.
- you have a family history of diabetes, particularly in a parent or sibling.
- you had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy.
- you are from certain ethnic backgrounds, such as Chinese, Asian, Hispanic, African-Caribbean, or Middle Eastern, are at a higher risk.
- you suffer from PCOS.
If any of these apply to you, you may be at risk of gestational diabetes. Most women who have gestational diabetes deliver normal babies. However, if gestational diabetes goes uncontrolled, it may cause certain complications. Gestational diabetes may go away on its own after birth, but women who suffer from this have a high chance of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
Do all women with risk factors for gestational diabetes develop the condition?
No, not all women with risk factors for gestational diabetes will necessarily develop the condition. It’s also important to note that some women may develop GDM even if they have no risk factors at all. This is why healthcare providers typically screen all pregnant women for gestational diabetes, regardless of their risk factors. If you have one or more risk factors for gestational diabetes, it’s important to discuss this with your doctor. They can provide guidance on ways to reduce your risk, such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and staying physically active during pregnancy. They may also recommend earlier or more frequent screening for gestational diabetes.
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