Publication:

Fetomaternal outcome in gestational diabetes mellitus: a retrospective study

Background Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common pregnancy complication that can adversely affect both maternal and neonatal outcomes. This study aimed to retrospectively evaluate fetomaternal outcomes in GDM by comparing lower segment caesarean section (LSCS) and normal vaginal delivery groups.

Methods A retrospective review of medical records from January 2018 to December 2020 was conducted at a tertiary care hospital. Fifty-one patients with GDM were included, with 29 undergoing LSCS and 22 having normal vaginal deliveries. Demographic, maternal, neonatal, lifestyle, and postpartum parameters were extracted and statistically analyzed using t-tests and Chi-square tests, with a significance threshold of p<0.05.

Results No significant differences were observed in maternal age, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), or gestational age at diagnosis between groups. However, birth weight values showed significant variation (p=0.039), though data discrepancies were noted. Maternal complications were significantly higher in the LSCS group (p=0.024), particularly due to previous caesarean sections and complex comorbidities. Neonatal outcomes also differed, with the LSCS group requiring more specialized care (IDM care, NICU admissions) and showing lower Apgar scores (p=0.015). Lifestyle factors and postpartum recovery were comparable between groups.

Conclusions The study highlighted that while baseline maternal characteristics were similar, significant differences in maternal complications and neonatal outcomes exist between LSCS and vaginal deliveries in GDM pregnancies. These findings underscore the need for individualized management and vigilant monitoring to optimize both maternal and neonatal health.