How does obesity affect gestational diabetes?

Obesity significantly increases the risk of developing gestational diabetes during pregnancy. When a woman is obese, her body becomes less sensitive to insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. This insulin resistance during pregnancy can lead to elevated blood sugar levels, ultimately causing gestational diabetes. In addition, excess weight gain during pregnancy can further worsen insulin resistance and increase the likelihood of developing this condition. Gestational diabetes poses health risks for both the mother and the baby, including complications during childbirth, higher chances of requiring a cesarean delivery, and an increased risk of the child developing obesity and diabetes later in life. Therefore, managing weight before and during pregnancy is crucial to reducing the likelihood of developing gestational diabetes and its associated complications.

This mind map was published on 31 July 2023 and has been viewed 67 times.