Gestational Diabetes Affects 1 in 5 Mothers Over 40 in Korea

While total deliveries in South Korea are declining due to low birth rates, the rate of gestational diabetes is rising sharply.

According to the "Diabetes Fact Sheet" released by the Korean Diabetes Association on the 20th, annual deliveries dropped from approximately 400,000 in 2013 to about 210,000 in 2023—a nearly 50% decrease. However, gestational diabetes diagnoses saw only a slight decline. The incidence rate relative to total deliveries surged from 7.6% to 12.4%.

Among mothers aged 40 and older, one in five was diagnosed with gestational diabetes. Rising maternal age is directly linked to increased prevalence.

Gestational diabetes is a glucose metabolism disorder first detected during pregnancy. Placental hormones secreted during pregnancy naturally increase insulin resistance. When insulin secretion fails to adequately compensate, blood sugar levels rise and the condition develops.

The problem extends beyond temporary elevated blood sugar. Mothers face increased risks of preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, polyhydramnios, and difficult labor. Fetuses are also exposed to risks including macrosomia, neonatal hypoglycemia, and neonatal respiratory distress syndrome.

Children born to mothers with gestational diabetes are known to have higher rates of childhood obesity and adult-onset Type 2 diabetes. Blood sugar management during pregnancy is directly connected to a child's lifelong health.

Gestational diabetes rarely presents noticeable symptoms. It must be identified through screening tests conducted between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. Early diagnosis and management are paramount.

After diagnosis, extreme dietary restrictions should be avoided. Low-calorie diets or excessive carbohydrate restriction can deprive the fetus of energy needed for growth. Split meals centered on complex carbohydrates combined with moderate aerobic exercise are recommended.

Vigilance must continue after delivery. Women with a history of gestational diabetes should undergo follow-up testing 4 to 12 weeks postpartum. Regular monitoring is necessary due to elevated long-term risk of progression to Type 2 diabetes.