What Are Risk Factors for Diabetes in Pregnancy?
Published: May 2023
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a condition in which blood sugar levels rise during pregnancy. While it can happen to any pregnant woman, certain factors increase your risk of developing it. Knowing these risk factors can help with early screening and prevention strategies.
1. Age
Women over the age of 35 are at a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes. Risk increases with each year over 30 due to hormonal shifts and reduced insulin sensitivity.
2. Overweight or Obesity
Being overweight (BMI over 25) or obese (BMI over 30) significantly increases the risk. Excess weight affects how your body uses insulin, increasing insulin resistance.
3. Family History of Diabetes
If you have a parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes, your chances of developing GDM are higher. This genetic predisposition affects how your body regulates blood sugar.
4. Previous Gestational Diabetes
If you had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy, your risk of having it again is high. Similarly, if you've given birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds (4 kg), it’s a warning sign.
5. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is associated with insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances, both of which increase the likelihood of gestational diabetes.
6. Ethnicity
Women of South Asian, African-Caribbean, Middle Eastern, Hispanic, or Native American descent have a higher risk, even at lower BMIs.
7. Sedentary Lifestyle
Physical inactivity before or during pregnancy can contribute to insulin resistance. Regular exercise helps regulate blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity.
8. Other Medical Conditions
Conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart disease increase your risk. Additionally, having prediabetes or high fasting glucose levels before pregnancy is a significant red flag.
How to Reduce Your Risk
- Maintain a healthy weight before conception.
- Eat a balanced, low-sugar, high-fiber diet.
- Exercise regularly before and during pregnancy.
- Get screened early if you have any risk factors.
- Manage any existing medical conditions with your doctor’s help.
Conclusion
Gestational diabetes can often be prevented or managed with early lifestyle changes and close monitoring. If you're planning a pregnancy or are currently pregnant, speak to your doctor about screening—especially if you identify with any of these risk factors.