It’s been 10 years since I wrote this post. A lot has changed in how life insurance companies view gestational diabetes. Some worse and some in the right direction. I hope bringing this up to date will be helpful. All the best.

What’s The Fuss Over Gestational Diabetes?diabetes life insurance quote

Gestational diabetes has become a significant concern in the realm of life insurance underwriting due to its potential long-term effects on women. Studies have shown that women who experience gestational diabetes during pregnancy have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes within 5 to 10 years after giving birth. While there is ongoing debate among researchers and insurance underwriters regarding the causal relationship between gestational diabetes and type 2 diabetes, it is clear that gestational diabetes is just one of several risk factors contributing to the development of type 2 diabetes. Lifestyle choices may play a more significant role than the mere presence of gestational diabetes.

The Changing Landscape

A few decades ago, the impact of gestational diabetes on life insurance applications was relatively straightforward. For instance, if a 35-year-old woman had a history of gestational diabetes that resolved after delivery, most insurance companies would offer her a standard rate due to the aforementioned risk. Her monthly premium for a $500,000, 30-year term policy would have been around $55. However, there were a few companies that deemed the risk insignificant and would approve her at their best rate, resulting in a monthly premium of less than $30.

It’s worth noting that a family history of diabetes is a significant risk factor in the progression from gestational to type 2 diabetes. In the aforementioned rate scenarios, her family history would likely place her in the standard rate category. However, it is important to recognize that family history serves as a red flag, prompting individuals to adopt an anti-diabetes lifestyle. Many individuals who have parents with health issues related to smoking tend to avoid smoking themselves, while those with parents who have experienced obesity-related health problems often make efforts to reduce obesity in their own lives.

The Present Reality

Today, the assessment of risks associated with gestational diabetes has undergone significant changes. After reviewing a list of 25 insurance companies known for their expertise in evaluating such risks, it is evident that the landscape has dramatically shifted. While two of the companies still offer the best rate class, many others provide rates that are worse than the worst-case scenario a decade ago. Some companies even delay consideration for coverage for up to five years post-childbirth, while others require women to reach menopause or the obvious non-child-bearing years before considering coverage. This shift indicates a growing belief among insurers that gestational diabetes poses a significant danger to mothers.

However, it is important to note that there is currently no medical evidence to support this perspective. Therefore, now more than ever, it is crucial to choose the right agent who can guide you to the appropriate life insurance company. Selecting the wrong agent and company can lead to unfavorable outcomes.

Bottom Line

Throughout my 24+ years in the life insurance industry, few health issues have taken such an incorrect and regressive turn from a scientific standpoint. As an independent agent, I have the advantage of reviewing over 30 companies to find the most suitable and affordable life insurance options for you. The Hinerman Group specializes in providing quality life insurance solutions for individuals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes as well. If you have any questions or have received exorbitant quotes or approvals for life insurance after experiencing gestational diabetes, please reach out to me directly. My name is Ed Hinerman, and I am here to help you find the best solution. Let’s have a conversation.