What is gestational diabetes?

Gestational diabetes is a specific type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy. It is characterized by high blood sugar levels that develop during pregnancy in women who did not previously have diabetes. The condition arises when the body cannot produce enough insulin to effectively manage glucose levels, often due to hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy.

This is different from chronic diabetes, which is a long-term condition requiring continual management. While obesity can be a risk factor for developing gestational diabetes, it is not exclusively related to it. The condition is typically temporary and usually resolves after childbirth, distinguishing it from diabetes that can persist long-term, such as type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Therefore, the accurate understanding of gestational diabetes is crucial for managing prenatal care and ensuring the health of both the mother and the developing fetus.