Publication:

Risk factors and fetomaternal outcome in gestational diabetes mellitus: a prospective observational study from a tertiary care hospital of Delhi

Background Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is defined as glucose intolerance of varying severity with onset or first recognition during pregnancy. The objectives of the study are to evaluate the risk factors of GDM and their causative role.

Methods A total of 121 antenatal women were enrolled after informed consent and screened for GDM between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation using Diabetes in Pregnancy Study Group of India (DIPSI) criteria. Participants were classified into the GDM group (≥140 mg/dl; n=25) and non-GDM group ( 25 kg/m² (44% vs 25%, p=0.033), weight gain >10 kg (44% vs 6.3%, p=0.001), positive family history of diabetes (24% vs 4.2%, p=0.001). Maternal complications were significantly more frequent in the GDM group including LSCS (60% vs 35.4%, p=0.045), pre-eclampsia (16% vs 4.2%, p=0.034), induction of labour (40% vs 18.8%, p=0.025), UTI (20% vs 6.3%, p=0.003), polyhydramnios (8% vs 3%, p=0.046), and PPH (20% vs 6.3%, p=0.033). Neonates of GDM mothers had birth weight ≥3.5 kg (12% vs 1%, p=0.008), macrosomia (4% vs 0%, p=0.049) and NICU admission (32% vs 11.5%, p=0.012).

Conclusions Early screening is recommended in patients with advanced maternal age, obesity, excessive gestational weight gain, or positive family history of diabetes. Appropriate and timely diagnosis and management of GDM can significantly reduce adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes; hence, early detection is essential.