NREMT Paramedic Practice

Gestational diabetes mellitus is primarily triggered by what factor?

1. Chronic kidney disease

2. Pregnancy

3. High-sugar diet

4. Genetic predisposition

The correct answer is: Pregnancy

Gestational diabetes mellitus is primarily connected to the physiological and hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. During this period, the body undergoes significant metabolic changes to support the growing fetus. Hormones such as insulin antagonists increase, leading to insulin resistance. This can result in elevated blood sugar levels, especially if the body is unable to produce enough insulin to overcome this resistance. While factors like a high-sugar diet, genetic predisposition, and chronic kidney disease can influence diabetes risk, they are not the primary triggers for gestational diabetes. It is specifically the changes associated with pregnancy that lead to the development of this form of diabetes, making pregnancy the primary factor in its onset. Understanding this context is crucial for recognizing how gestational diabetes develops and its implications for both maternal and fetal health.