Parental characteristics that increase the risk for developing gestational diabetes include obesity, excessive gestational weight gain, physical inactivity, prior gestational diabetes or glucose intolerance, family history of type 2 diabetes, high-risk race/ethnicity (e.g., Black, American Indian, Asian American, Pacific Islander), hypertension (high blood pressure), multiple gestation pregnancy, older maternal age, polycystic ovary syndrome, and previous birth of a large infant (greater than 9 lbs).[1][2]
What are the risk factors for gestational diabetes?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Risk factors for gestational diabetes include obesity, excessive weight gain during pregnancy, physical inactivity, a history of gestational diabetes or glucose intolerance, family history of type 2 diabetes, high-risk racial/ethnic backgrounds, hypertension, multiple pregnancies, older maternal age, polycystic ovary syndrome, and previous delivery of large infants.