Final answer:
The possible health risks associated with being overweight during pregnancy include Prediabetes, Gestational diabetes, and having a baby with a high birth weight (over 9lbs). These conditions stem from the effects of increased fat mass and are linked to lifelong health issues for both mother and child.
Step-by-step explanation:
The possible health risks associated with overweight during pregnancy include Prediabetes, Gestational diabetes, and the possibility of the baby weighing over 9lbs, which can be indicative of macrosomia. All of these are indeed potential health risks. Overweight and obesity during pregnancy can lead to a greater likelihood of the baby developing diabetes and obesity in later life. These conditions are linked to an imbalance in the body's response to insulin (insulin resistance) and an increase in inflammation and risk of blood clots due to an increased number of fat cells.
Furthermore, the excess body fat from obesity stresses the organ systems, causing diseases such as osteoarthritis and obstructive sleep apnea, and ultimately altering the body's metabolism. Obesity is the root cause of a significant number of diabetes cases, specifically 64 percent in men and 77 percent in women. Thus, maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy is crucial for both maternal and fetal health.