A Study on Screening for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and the Management of the Disease After Diagnosis

Abstract

Screening for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) can be essential in preventing poor health outcomes for both the mother and the baby. The purpose of this study is to determine the benefits of screening and treatments used for gestational diabetes by tracking certain factors such as blood pressure, glucose levels, birth weight, and neonatal complications. 150 pregnant women between the ages of 25-35 were evaluated and underwent risk assessment. The women and their physician both signed consent forms for the study. The women were screened for gestational diabetes between 24 and 28 weeks’ gestation using a 50g 1-h glucose loading test. Out of the 150 women who were screened for gestational diabetes, 84 (44%) were diagnosed with the illness. The 84 women were then randomly assigned into 2 groups. One group of 42 women was the treatment group with diet management, exercise, and insulin therapy while the second group of 42 women was the treatment group with the use of oral hypoglycemic agents. Pregnancy was followed from screening point to the birth of the baby. The women in the treatment group of diet management, exercise, and insulin therapy showed a 77% improvement rating and no neonatal complications or deaths. The treatment group who used oral hypoglycemic agents had higher rates of preeclampsia, macrosomia, and neonatal hypoglycemia. There was 1 neonatal death reported from the oral hypoglycemic agent group. Treatment of gestational diabetes with use of diet and exercise control and insulin therapy improved outcomes for both the mother and the baby. It is in pregnant women’s best interest to be screened for gestational diabetes mellitus. Clinicians and physicians should recommend all pregnant women to be screened for GDM. Future research is recommended for screening before 24 weeks gestation. Also research on the best glucose test loads and timing is recommended to ensure the best practical and cost efficient method for universal use....