What physiological change occurs to a pregnant woman's body that affects insulin needs?

During pregnancy, a significant physiological change that affects insulin needs is the decrease in insulin sensitivity. As the pregnancy progresses, the body undergoes hormonal changes that lead to insulin resistance, particularly due to the influence of hormones like progesterone and cortisol, as well as human placental lactogen. This decrease in sensitivity means that the body requires more insulin to effectively manage blood glucose levels, especially as the placenta grows and metabolic demands increase.

This altered insulin sensitivity helps to ensure that sufficient glucose is available for the developing fetus, allowing for proper growth and energy supply. While insulin needs rise due to this resistance, the body usually adapts by producing more insulin, but in some cases, women may develop gestational diabetes if this regulation fails.

In this context, increased metabolism, increased fat storage, and decreased glucose production do not accurately represent the hormonal and metabolic adaptations occurring during pregnancy that specifically influence insulin requirements.