Managing gestational diabetes mellitus: Audit data of outcomes for women and neonates

Abstract

Background Literature on the management of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and other pre-existing diabetic conditions in pregnancy suggest treatments that may ameliorate outcomes for both mother and neonates. Aims To examine the effects of GDM on outcomes for mothers and neonates and the effects of maternal age, body mass index and gestational age at birth with or without induction of labour for women with GDM. Methods Audit data of outcomes for GDM groups were analysed against outcomes for the general population of women giving birth in this unit. Descriptive statistics organised the data and inferential statistics determined the significant differences between frequencies. Findings Most of the results were predictive when comparing women with and without GDM for mode of birth and outcomes for mothers and neonates. This included significant differences for hospital birth, induction of labour and caesarean section. Conclusion Good glycaemic control and healthy lifestyle measures are advised to minimise development of obesity in women with GDM and diverse outcomes for both mothers and neonates.