Gestational diabetes, a disease that develops in pregnant women only, is caused by hormonal changes and weight gain. It is a condition that can be controlled with dietary changes, increased physical activity, and insulin. It is important to treat gestational diabetes early in pregnancy, as it could lead to health problems for both the mother and fetus. Women who are over age 25, have a family history of diabetes, or are very overweight are at a higher risk for developing gestational diabetes.
(To learn more about this condition, click Gestational Diabetes. This article covers topics such as causes of the disease, risk factors for the condition, and available treatment options. You can also click on the various links in the box to the right to access specific topics on gestational diabetes.)