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Gestational Diabetes: Risk Factors, Screening, Management Strategies, and Maternal-Fetal Outcomes
Gestational diabetes is a condition characterized by glucose intolerance first recognized during pregnancy. Risk factors include obesity, advanced maternal age, family history of diabetes, previous gestational diabetes, and certain ethnic backgrounds. Hyperglycemia during pregnancy can affect both maternal and fetal health, increasing risks of preeclampsia, macrosomia, neonatal hypoglycemia, and long-term metabolic disorders.
Screening typically occurs between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation using glucose challenge and oral glucose tolerance tests. Management strategies include lifestyle modifications such as diet control, regular physical activity, and frequent blood glucose monitoring. Pharmacologic interventions, including insulin and oral hypoglycemic agents, may be required if lifestyle measures are insufficient.
Postpartum follow-up is essential for early detection of type 2 diabetes. Education on nutrition, exercise, breastfeeding benefits, and long-term health monitoring supports positive maternal and child outcomes. Emerging research explores predictive biomarkers, continuous glucose monitoring, and individualized intervention plans.
FAQs
Q1: What is gestational diabetes?Glucose intolerance first recognized…