What is a common risk for infants born to mothers who experience gestational diabetes?

Infants born to mothers with gestational diabetes are at an increased risk of developing obesity later in life. This association is primarily due to the influence of excess maternal glucose levels on fetal growth and metabolism. During gestation, elevated blood sugar levels can lead to intrauterine over-nutrition, resulting in larger birth weights and the potential for altered insulin sensitivity as the child grows. These infants may have a predisposed risk to metabolic disorders, including obesity and related health issues, later in childhood and adulthood.

This risk stems from complex interactions that occur during pregnancy when the fetal environment is highly influenced by the mother's metabolic state. As such, addressing gestational diabetes through proper management not only benefits the immediate health of the newborn but also plays a crucial role in their long-term metabolic health.