Study of Impact of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus on Maternal and Neonatal Health in Tertiary Care Center: A Clinical Evaluation
Keywords:
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), Maternal complications, Neonatal outcomes, Postpartum glucose intoleranceAbstract
Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a prevalent metabolic disorder during pregnancy, characterized by glucose intolerance. GDM poses significant risks for both mother and child, including increased chances of caesarean section, pre-eclampsia, macrosomia, and long-term development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Early diagnosis and management can reduce these complications.
Aims and objectives: To study the impact of gestational diabetes mellitus on maternal and neonatal health.
Materials and Methods: This prospective study was conducted at S.R.T.R G.M.C AMBAJOGAI hospital over 12 months. A total of 55 pregnant women diagnosed with GDM were included based on American Diabetes Association (ADA) criteria. All patients underwent detailed clinical and laboratory evaluations, including fasting blood sugar (FBS) and postprandial blood sugar (PLBS). Delivery outcomes, maternal complications, and neonatal outcomes were recorded. Postpartum glucose levels were monitored at six weeks to assess glucose intolerance.
Results: The incidence of GDM in the studied population was 3.5%. Pre-eclampsia was observed in 28% of the patients, and 56% underwent caesarean sections. Macrosomia, defined as birth weight above 3.5 kg, was seen in 29% of neonates. Neonatal complications included respiratory distress (14%), hypoglycemia (10%), and hyperbilirubinemia (12%). At six-week follow-up, 32.4% of mothers showed impaired glucose tolerance, indicating a high risk of progressing to T2DM.
Conclusion: GDM is associated with significant maternal and neonatal complications. Early detection and individualized management of GDM, along with rigorous postpartum monitoring, are crucial for improving outcomes and preventing future metabolic disorders. Public health strategies focusing on lifestyle modification and long-term follow-up are essential in reducing the burden of GDM-related complications.
