Phil Kieran: I'm worried about getting gestational diabetes again

Gestational diabetes risk factors are a family history of the condition, a higher BMI, a previous baby who was born at high birth weight, those with polycystic ovarian syndrome or anyone who had GDM in a previous pregnancy

Dr Phil Kieran: "Gestational diabetes mellitus, or GDM, is relatively common, occurring in 12.4% of pregnancies, according to the latest statistics. This is a condition where your body’s ability to control its sugar levels is suppressed, which in turn allows the sugar levels to rise." Picture: Stockbyte

I developed gestational diabetes during my first pregnancy, which was well-managed. I'd like to have a second child, but I'm worried about developing the condition again. Is there anything I could do to reduce my risk?

Gestational diabetes mellitus, or GDM, is relatively common, occurring in 12.4% of pregnancies, according to the latest statistics. This is a condition where your body’s ability to control its sugar levels is suppressed, which in turn allows the sugar levels to rise.