Q: What are the risk factors for gestational diabetes?
A: Although gestational diabetes can strike any pregnant woman, there are several factors that could increase your chances of developing it. Risk factors include:
-Age greater than 25
-Family history of diabetes
-Obesity prior to pregnancy
-History of birthing big babies (over 9 pounds)
-High blood pressure
-Excess amniotic fluid (called polyhydramnios)
-History of unexplained miscarriage or stillbirth
-Personal history of gestational diabetes
-Being African American, Hispanic, American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander
Answered by Parents.com-Team