Define the term "gestational diabetes."

The term "gestational diabetes" specifically refers to carbohydrate intolerance that develops during pregnancy. This condition is characterized by elevated blood glucose levels that are first identified during pregnancy and typically resolve after delivering the baby. It results from hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy, which can lead to insulin resistance. Women who experience gestational diabetes are at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes later in life, as well as potential complications during pregnancy.

The focus on carbohydrate intolerance highlights that this condition is distinct from chronic diabetes, which involves a longstanding issue with insulin production and regulation. Unlike a genetic predisposition, gestational diabetes can occur in women without prior history of diabetes and is not solely a condition impacting fetal development. Instead, it significantly affects both maternal and fetal health, necessitating careful management throughout pregnancy.