Which complication may arise from gestational diabetes in the fetus?

Gestational diabetes can lead to a variety of complications for the fetus, and one of the most significant is macrosomia, which refers to excessive fetal growth. Maternal hyperglycemia in gestational diabetes results in elevated levels of glucose in the bloodstream, which readily crosses the placenta. The fetus then metabolizes this excess glucose, leading to increased insulin production. The result of this process is an increase in fetal fat and overall body mass, often leading to macrosomia.

Macrosomia can pose various risks during delivery, including shoulder dystocia and increased likelihood of cesarean delivery. It is important to monitor and manage gestational diabetes to minimize the risk of complications like macrosomia for the fetus.

While other complications can arise from gestational diabetes, such as neonatal hypoglycemia or a higher risk of future diabetes for both the mother and child, these are secondary to the immediate concern of macrosomia when considering fetal complications directly associated with gestational diabetes.