One in seven pregnant Australians affected by gestational diabetes

Australia's fastest-growing number of diabetics are mothers-to-be who are Indigenous or were born in Asia, Africa and the Middle East.

Research shows 40,000 women who gave birth in Australia last year were diagnosed with gestational diabetes. (AAP) Source: AAP

A new study has found they're most at risk of developing gestational diabetes - a condition linked to genetics and diet that can affect a mother's health long after giving birth.

New research by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare showed more than 40,000 women who gave birth in Australia last year were diagnosed with gestational diabetes, a form of high blood sugar levels during pregnancy.

While the condition usually disappears after delivery, it can recur in later pregnancies.