Gestational Diabetes and Postpartum Care

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (also known as GDM or gestational diabetes) is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. In gestational diabetes, blood sugar rises because of pregnancy-related hormonal changes and usually develops around 24 weeks but may occur earlier in pregnancy. In most cases, blood sugar levels can be controlled with diet and exercise, but some people may need oral medication or insulin. Pregnant women who are Black, Native American/Alaska Native, Hispanic, Asian American, and Pacific Islander are at a higher risk for developing gestational diabetes. Other risk factors include family history, physical inactivity, and maternal age. Most people with gestational diabetes return to normal blood sugar levels after delivery.

Individuals who begin pregnancy above a healthy weight are more likely to develop gestational diabetes. The number of pregnant individuals affected by gestational diabetes has been increasing in recent years. In California, about 6 in 10 individuals who gave birth in 2022 were overweight before becoming pregnant.