Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) occurs when a woman’s pancreatic function is not sufficient to overcome the diabetogenic environment of pregnancy. GDM is defined as glucose intolerance that was not present or recognized prior to her pregnancy.
India one of the most populous country the rates of GDM are estimated to be 10-14% which is much higher than the west. This incidence is expected to increase to 20% meaning 1 in every 5 pregnant women is likely to have GDM.
The most common risk factors include –
history of macrosomia (birth weight > 4000 g)
polycystic ovarian syndrome
essential hypertension or pregnancy-related hypertension
spontaneous abortions and unexplained stillbirths,
strong family history of diabetes (especially in first-degree relatives),
obesity
body mass index BMI > 30
age >25 years
persistent glucosuria
history of GDM in previous pregnancy,