Who is generally at higher risk for gestational diabetes?

Gestational diabetes typically occurs during pregnancy when the body cannot produce enough insulin to meet the increased needs due to hormonal changes. Pregnant women who are older and overweight are generally at a higher risk for developing this condition because both factors contribute to insulin resistance.

Being older, especially over the age of 25, can decrease the body's ability to manage blood sugar effectively. Additionally, excess weight, particularly obesity, is linked to impaired insulin action, which means that the body’s cells are less responsive to insulin. This mismatch between insulin supply and demand can lead to elevated blood glucose levels, culminating in gestational diabetes.

Younger, active women usually have a lower risk due to better insulin sensitivity. Likewise, women below 30 years old and those with no prior health issues typically have a healthier metabolic process, making them less likely candidates for gestational diabetes. Thus, the combination of age and overweight status is crucial in assessing the risk for this condition.