Gestational diabetes occurs when pregnancy hormones and weight gain block a woman’s body's ability to use insulin properly. This type of diabetes can affect women who have never had diabetes. Gestational diabetes may affect as many as 5% of pregnant women¹.

Gestational diabetes can lead to high blood pressure for the mother and high birth weight for the baby. Although this type of diabetes usually goes away after the baby is born, there is also an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes for both mother and baby in the future. Your baby may also be at higher risk of childhood obesity¹.

These risks can be reduced by maintaining a reasonable weight, staying physically active and making healthy food choices. Breast-feeding may lower your baby’s risk for type 2 diabetes as well. See your healthcare professional to create a management plan that is right for you and your baby.


Reference:

1. Australian Diabetes Council. Diabetes Fact Sheet. http://www.australiandiabetescouncil.com/Resources/PDFs/Diabetes-Facts---Australian-Diabetes-Council-J-%281%29.aspx