Understanding Gestational Diabetes (GDM)

What is GDM?

GDM stands for gestational diabetes mellitus. It affects around 9% of pregnancies in the US and up to 15% globally. It is one of the most common pregnancy complications. During pregnancy, it’s common for your body to have an imbalance in insulin release or your body’s response to insulin. This results in higher blood sugars leading to gestational diabetes.

GDM can have a range of pregnancy complications including a baby that is larger than normal, preterm birth, and preeclampsia – a condition where your high blood pressure becomes too high and causes even more complications. Having a baby that is too large can result in significant shoulder injuries to the baby during delivery, more bleeding during vaginal delivery, and a higher risk of needing a C-section.

What are the risk factors?

Globally, about 1 in 6 live births are affected by gestational diabetes (GDM). GDM is a common pregnancy complication, and certain factors increase the likelihood of developing it:

• Family History – A personal or family history of type 2 diabetes increases risk.
• Age – Women over 25 have a higher risk.
• Obesity – Being overweight before pregnancy raises the likelihood.
• Previous GDM – Having had gestational diabetes in a past pregnancy.
• PCOS – Polycystic ovary syndrome is linked to insulin resistance and GDM.
• Ethnicity – Higher risk among African American, Hispanic, Native American, and Asian populations.
• Large Baby History – Previous birth weight over 9 lbs may indicate risk.

Gestational diabetes often goes undetected until mid-pregnancy — missing the window for early, preventive care.