What is a correct statement about gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM)?

The definition of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) focuses on the condition's origins and the time frame in which it develops. GDM is specifically characterized as glucose intolerance that arises during pregnancy. This means that the body is unable to effectively manage blood sugar levels due to hormonal changes and increased insulin resistance that occurs during gestation.

Understanding this definition helps in recognizing that GDM is different from pre-existing diabetes, as it is not diagnosed until a woman is pregnant. Furthermore, identifying GDM accurately is crucial for managing the health of both the mother and the fetus, as untreated GDM can lead to complications.

The other statements do not accurately represent the nature of GDM. For instance, GDM does not use the same criteria as nonpregnancy to diagnose it, as the physiological changes in pregnancy may require tailored evaluation. The progression to diabetes mellitus after pregnancy is not as high as 60%-75% in all cases, making it an overestimate. Lastly, GDM is associated with increased health risks to the fetus, including the potential for macrosomia and neonatal hypoglycemia, countering the claim that it presents no increased health risk.