A Practical Manual of Diabetes in Pregnancy. Edited by David McCance, Michael Maresh and David Sacks. © 2010, Wiley‐Blackwell Price: ISBN: 9781405179041 website: www.wiley.com

Abstract

This book is well written and divided into five sections. ‘Epidemiology and pathophysiology’ summarises evidence on the prevalence of different types of diabetes in pregnancy, pregnancy outcomes and their causes. ‘Impaired glucose tolerance and gestational diabetes’ explores different methods of screening, diagnosis and the rationale for treating diabetes in pregnancy. ‘Prepregnancy and pregnancy care’ discusses the importance of preconception care in women with known diabetes – as unplanned pregnancies are more likely to result in poor outcomes. The latest evidence relating to the importance of lifestyle and dietary advice, the use and safety of OHAs and insulins are reviewed. ‘Complications in pregnancy’ covers adverse pregnancy outcomes including miscarriages, congenital malformations, macrosomia and perinatal mortality, as well as maternal antenatal macro- and micro-vascular complications. There is a useful chapter on ketoacidosis. ‘Delivery and post delivery care’ discusses obstetric and diabetes management during labour, delivery and post partum. An important chapter concerns contraception in women with diabetes. The long-term implications of maternal diabetes for mother and child are also discussed. Each chapter commences with important learning points, includes a patient vignette and ends with a detailed summary of references. This evidence-based book will be invaluable for anyone aiming to provide the very best care for pregnant women with diabetes.