Once you have the baby, your body should be able to use its insulin more effectively. Shortly after the baby is born, the placenta is “delivered.” Because the placenta causes insulin resistance, when it's gone, gestational diabetes usually goes away too.

If you have gestational diabetes, you are at higher than normal risk for developing type 2 diabetes later in your life. Type 2 diabetes, like gestational diabetes, occurs when the body doesn't use its insulin properly. Keeping your weight within a healthy range and keeping up regular, moderate physical activity after your baby is born can help lower your risk for type 2 diabetes.