Gestational diabetes is associated with:
a. IUGR or Macrosomia
b. Polyhydramnios or Oligohydramnios

During the 2nd and 3rd trimester, the placenta secretes hPL (human placental lactogen). This hormone increases maternal insulin resistance in order to promote fetal growth and metabolism. For some women*, their pancreas can’t overcome this new insulin resistance, resulting in hyperglycemia. High levels of glucose are then transferred across the placenta.

Fetal hyperglycemia results in increased fetal insulin and insulin like growth factor. This promotes fetal growth resulting in macrosomia. Fetal hyperglycemia also results in osmotic diuresis and polyuria (just like it does in adults!) resulting in polyhydramnios.

*Some moms are at higher risk of gestational diabetes: excessive weight gain during pregnancy, obesity, previous macrosomic infant, family history of diabetes.

Gestational diabetes is associated with:
Macrosomia & Polyhydramnios