Recent research highlights a significant rise in diabetes in pregnancy risks, specifically regarding gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and pregestational type 2 diabetes. According to data from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project, GDM prevalence increased from 7.1 to 9.5 per 100 deliveries between 2016 and 2022. Consequently, healthcare providers must address these trends to prevent adverse outcomes. Furthermore, the rising incidence of diabetes mirrors a broader increase in severe maternal morbidity (SMM) across the United States.

Understanding Diabetes in Pregnancy Risks

While GDM is the most common form of the condition, pregestational diabetes presents even higher clinical challenges. Specifically, type 1 diabetes was associated with the highest risk of nontransfusion SMM. However, type 2 diabetes and GDM also showed clear associations with increased morbidity. Therefore, comprehensive monitoring is essential for all pregnant women with glycemic disorders. Additionally, multidisciplinary care teams should focus on cardiometabolic risk management during both the pregnancy and the delivery stages.

Moreover, the study revealed that overall SMM increased from 160.0 to 220.3 per 10,000 deliveries during the study period. This upward trend underscores the need for localized clinical interventions. Since the prevalence of type 2 diabetes continues to rise, clinicians must be proactive. In conclusion, managing these conditions requires a robust framework of specialized care to safeguard maternal health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which type of diabetes carries the highest risk for severe maternal morbidity?

Pregestational type 1 diabetes is associated with the highest relative risk for nontransfusion severe maternal morbidity, followed by type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes.

How much did the prevalence of gestational diabetes increase recently?

The prevalence of gestational diabetes in delivery hospitalizations rose from 7.1 per 100 deliveries in 2016 to 9.5 per 100 deliveries in 2022.

Why is multidisciplinary care recommended for these patients?

Multidisciplinary care is crucial because all forms of diabetes in pregnancy are linked to increased morbidity, requiring coordinated management of cardiometabolic and obstetric risks.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.

References

1. Fwu CW et al. Trends in Pregestational and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Associations With Severe Maternal Morbidity in U.S. Delivery Hospitalizations, 2016-2022. Diabetes Care. 2026 Jun 19. doi: undefined. PMID: 42319764.


2. Shah N et al. Gestational Diabetes Rose Every Year in the US Since 2016. JAMA Internal Medicine. 2025.


3. American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026. Diabetes Care. 2026.