WVDHHR > Division of Health Promotion and Chronic Disease > Focus Areas > Diabetes

Gestational Diabetes

What is Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops or is first recognized during pregnancy, caused by the hormones of pregnancy or a shortage of insulin. It occurs in some women in the late stages of pregnancy. Although this form of diabetes usually goes away after the baby is born, a woman who has had it is more likely to develop type 2 diabetes later in life. Gestational diabetes affects about 4% of all pregnant women - about 135,000 cases in the United States each year.

Learn more: CDC Gestational Diabetes Podcast

Gestational Diabetes Management Collaborative
Final Reports

How do I know if I am at risk?

You are at risk for gestational diabetes if you had a previous pregnancy with gestational diabetes.
Had a baby born weighing over 9 pounds
Are overweight or obese
Are more than 25 years old
Have a family history of diabetes
Are African American, Hispanic, American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander
Are being treated for HIV

How can I find out if I have gestational diabetes?

Most women are screened for gestational diabetes at 24-28 weeks gestation during prenatal care.
If you or your health care provider has concerns, your health care provider may screen you earlier.

Why is gestational diabetes a problem?

For you:

Your risk of developing type 2 diabetes is increased.
You are more likely to have a large baby (a condition known as macrosomia). This may cause discomfort during the last few months of pregnancy.
Having a large baby may lead to a cesarean section (C-section). If you had a C-section, it may take longer for you to recover after the birth.

For your baby:

Large babies are more likely to suffer from birth trauma.
Soon after delivery, your baby may have low blood sugar. This can be treated with early feedings and should not result in any long-term consequences after birth.
What can I do during pregnancy if I have gestational diabetes?
Go to all of your prenatal visits.
Follow your health care providers’ recommendations for controlling your blood sugar. This can help reduce your risk of having a large baby.
Stay physically active.
Make healthy food choices.
Ask your health care provider to see a dietician or a diabetes educator.

What can I do after my pregnancy to reduce my chance of developing type 2 diabetes in the future?

Follow up regularly with your health care provider.
Get tested for diabetes 6 to 12 weeks after your baby is born, then every 1 to 3 years.
Stay physically active.
Make healthy food choices.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Ask your health care provider about type 2 diabetes prevention and care after delivery.
Ask to see a dietitian or a diabetes educator to learn more about type 2 diabetes prevention.