Gestational diabetes mellitus: onset, causes and management

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) can be defined as glucose intolerance with onset or first recognition occurring during pregnancy.¹

GDM is a more common cause of diabetes in pregnancy than pre-existing diabetes, accounting for nearly 90% of cases, and its prevalence is increasing in line with rising body mass index.² GDM can lead to significant problems for both foetus and mother during pregnancy and delivery, as well as for the neonate. Additionally, there are important long-term adverse consequences for both the child and mother.

Therefore, it is important that primary care practitioners can appropriately advise women at high risk of GDM, understand the management of GDM, and assume responsibility for post‑pregnancy follow-up of GDM.³