What is a common complication of pregnancy in women with gestational diabetes?

Gestational diabetes is a condition that arises during pregnancy when the body cannot effectively utilize insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. One of the notable complications associated with this condition is macrosomia, which refers to a larger-than-normal baby, typically weighing more than 8 pounds, 13 ounces (4,000 grams) at birth.

The reason macrosomia occurs in pregnancies affected by gestational diabetes is related to the excess glucose in the mother's bloodstream. This additional glucose is passed on to the fetus, prompting the fetus to produce more insulin to manage the elevated blood sugar levels. The excess insulin acts as a growth hormone, contributing to increased fetal growth, which results in macrosomia. Macrosomia can further lead to a range of complications during delivery, including increased risk of cesarean section, birth injuries, and potential respiratory distress in the newborn.

In contrast, while conditions such as hypertension and preeclampsia can occur during pregnancy, they are not directly linked as common complications specifically associated with gestational diabetes. Similarly, placenta previa, which involves the placenta covering the cervix, is a separate complication that is not directly tied to the presence of gestational diabetes. Therefore, macrosomia stands out as the most relevant complication directly associated with