What Is Gestational Diabetes?
3. Pathophysiology
The main defects in gestational diabetes are impairment of insulin secretion and marked insulin resistance. All pregnancies result in increased pancreatic insulin secretion and insulin resistance as the pregnancy continues. The resistance usually begins mid pregnancy and continues until the baby is born. There is an estimated 200% to 250% increase in insulin secretion during pregnancy to help maintain a normal blood glucose level in the mother.
It is a normal change in order to provide nourishment to the fetus. Gestational diabetes occurs when the insulin secretion is inadequate. Maternal obesity and placental hormones are also factors that contributes to insulin resistance. While these cumulative factors are thought to cause gestational diabetes, the exact molecular process remains unclear.
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