Researchers from Ohio University have found that women who give birth to large children have an increased risk of developing diabetes later in life. Research published American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology.
Previous studies have shown that diabetes during pregnancy, also known as gestational diabetes, puts a pregnant woman at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. Gestational diabetes is also associated with an increased risk of having a large baby. However, it was unknown whether the single birth of a large child would increase a woman’s risk of diabetes.
Of the 4,025 women who participated in the study who did not have gestational diabetes, 13% (535 people) gave birth to a child heavier than 90% of children of the same age. These babies are more likely to be admitted to the intensive care unit and later develop health complications, including obesity and type 2 diabetes.
The scientists also took into account the participants’ age, BMI, high blood pressure, and heredity. The analysis showed that 10-14 years after birth, those who gave birth to a high-birth-weight child were 5-10% more likely to have prediabetes or diabetes.
The study revealed that scientists should investigate more closely the link between pregnancy and long-term health outcomes for mothers and children.