What complication can arise from high maternal blood sugar levels during pregnancy?

High maternal blood sugar levels during pregnancy can lead to macrosomia, which is a condition where the fetus grows larger than average. Elevated glucose levels in the mother can cause the fetus to receive more glucose than it needs, stimulating excessive fetal insulin production. This increased insulin acts as a growth hormone, leading to larger fetal size. Macrosomia is associated with a range of complications during delivery, including an increased risk of cesarean section and birth injuries, such as shoulder dystocia.

In contrast, anemia, gestational hypertension, and diabetes insipidus are not direct consequences of high maternal blood sugar levels. Anemia could arise from various factors during pregnancy but is not linked directly to elevated blood glucose. Gestational hypertension is characterized by elevated blood pressure and is influenced by other factors, not solely by blood sugar levels. Diabetes insipidus is a condition related to abnormal water balance and is unrelated to glucose metabolism in pregnancy. Understanding these connections is crucial for managing pregnancies complicated by diabetes and helping prevent associated risks for both mother and child.