Postpartum Oral Glucose Tolerance Test Research Articles

Gestational diabetes mellitus – Can we do better with postpartum diabetes screening?

ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the accuracy of measuring fasting plasma glucose (FPG) within 24–48 h postpartum in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) as a predictor for abnormal 6–12-week postpartum oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Study designA retrospective cohort study (2012–2021) included women with GDM and singleton pregnancies who had FPG levels recorded 24–28 h postpartum and underwent a 6–12-week OGTT. The study compared the predictive accuracy of these FPG readings with the OGTT results. ResultsAmong 3,128 GDM patients, 1,163 (37.2 %) had a postpartum OGTT, with 935 (80.2 %) showing normal FPG (<100 mg/dL). In low-risk GDM cases (managed by lifestyle modifications), 86.15 % had normal postpartum FPG. Normal 24-48hrs FPG readings, especially in low-risk GDM cases, had a high negative predictive value (NPV of 99.3 %) for type-2 diabetes at the 6–12-week OGTT, but a lower NPV (85.8 %) for predicting future glucose intolerance. DiscussionImmediate postpartum FPG testing effectively excludes low-risk GDM women with regards to future type-2 diabetes and reasonably excluded future glucose intolerance in this group. Due to low compliance with standard OGTT, postpartum FPG could be a more practical predictive tool for diabetes in low-risk GDM cases.

Association of mid-pregnancy ferritin levels with postpartum glucose metabolism in women with gestational diabetes

BackgroundFerritin, a key indicator of body iron levels, has been reported to associate with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and the onset of Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). However, limited research explores the association between mid-pregnancy ferritin levels and the risk of postpartum abnormal glucose metabolism (AGM) in patients with GDM.MethodsA retrospective cohort study was conducted in 1514 women with GDM recruited from January 2016 to January 2021, and 916 women were included. Demographic characteristics, medical history and family history, pregnancy complications were recorded. Multiple logistic regression models were performed to assess the association between mid-pregnancy ferritin levels and the risk of postpartum AGM.ResultsFollowing the postpartum oral glucose tolerance test, 307 (33.5%) exhibited AGM. The AGM group had higher mid-pregnancy serum ferritin levels [AGM vs NGT: 23 (11.7, 69) µg/L vs 17.80 (9.85, 40.7) µg/L, P < 0.001] and had a larger proportion of women with ferritin levels ≥30 µg/L (AGM vs NGT: 43.6% vs 31.4%, P < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that women with ferritin levels≥ 30 µg/L had a 1.566 times higher risk of developing postpartum AGM.ConclusionsThese findings indicate that elevated mid-pregnancy ferritin levels are significantly and independently associated with increased postpartum AGM risk in women with previous GDM. Consequently, cautious consideration is necessary for prescribing iron supplements in prenatal care, particularly for non-anemic women with GDM at high risk of developing diabetes after delivery.

One-year postpartum weight retention and glucose intolerance in women with prediabetes after gestational diabetes.

To determine risk factors for 1-year postpartum weight retention (PPWR) and glucose intolerance (prediabetes + diabetes) in women with a previous history of gestational diabetes (GDM) and prediabetes in early postpartum. In this exploratory analysis of the MELINDA randomized controlled trial, we report data of 167 women with prediabetes at the 6-16 weeks (early) postpartum oral glucose tolerance test after a recent history of GDM. Of all participants, 45% (75) had PPWR >0 kg at 1-year postpartum. Compared to women without PPWR, women with PPWR had higher gestational weight gain [10.5 ± 6.4 vs. 6.5 ± 4.5 kg, p < 0.001], higher BMI (p < 0.01) and a worse metabolic profile (higher waist circumference, worse lipid profile and more insulin resistance) (all p < 0.05) both in early and late postpartum. Of all women with PPWR, 40.0% developed metabolic syndrome, compared to 18.9% of women without late PPWR (p = 0.003). The only independent predictor for late PPWR was weight retention in early postpartum (p < 0.001). Of all participants, 55.1% (92) had glucose intolerance (84 prediabetes, 8 diabetes) 1-year postpartum. Independent predictors for late postpartum glucose intolerance were lower gestational age at start insulin therapy in pregnancy and delivery by caesarean section (resp. p = 0.044 and 0.014). In women with a previous history of GDM and prediabetes in early postpartum, PPWR in early postpartum was a strong independent predictor for late PPWR, while earlier start of insulin therapy during pregnancy and delivery by caesarean section were independent predictors of glucose intolerance in late postpartum.

Effects of Implementing a Routine Postpartum Fasting Blood Glucose on the Completion of the Gold Standard 2-Hour Oral Glucose Tolerance Test in Gestational Diabetics.

Rates of completion of the gold standard 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) for impaired glucose intolerance postpartum in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are consistently less than 50%. Screening tests performed prior to hospital discharge, including fasting blood glucose (FBG) to detect persistent hyperglycemia, have been investigated. We lack evidence, however, on whether implementation of routine postpartum FBG impacts the likelihood of obtaining the routine 2-hour OGTT. We sought to retrospectively compare the rates of completion of the 2-hour OGTT pre- and postimplementation of a routine FBG screen. We performed a single-center retrospective cohort study comparing the completion of the 2-hour OGTT pre- and postimplementation of a routine FBG screen. Our primary outcome was the completion of the postpartum OGTT. Bivariate analyses assessed associations between demographic and preinduction clinical characteristics by pre- and post-implementation groups, as well as OGTT completion. Multivariable logistic regression was used to control for possible confounders. A sensitivity analysis was performed to account for the overlap with the coronavirus disease 2019pandemic. In total, 468 patients met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. In our post-intervention group, 64% of patients completed a postpartum FBG. For our primary outcome, completion of the 2-hour OGTT significantly decreased in our postintervention group from 37.1 to 25.9% (p = 0.009), adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 0.62, confidence interval (CI): 0.41-0.92. This difference was no longer statistically significant when excluding patients during the pandemic, from 40.3 to 33.1% (p = 0.228), aOR: 0.76, CI: 0.455-1.27. Implementation of a routine FBG was associated with a negative impact on patients completing a 2-hour OGTT. The difference was no longer significant when excluding patients who would have obtained the OGTT during the pandemic, which may have been due to the smaller cohort. Future work should investigate patient perceptions of the FBG and its impact on their decision-making around the OGTT. · Screening for postpartum glucose intolerance is imperative for gestational diabetics.. · A fasting blood glucose is recommended as a postpartum screen for hyperglycemia in GDM patients.. · Implementation of an FBG was associated with a decrease in completion of the gold standard OGTT..

Indications for the Postpartum Oral Glucose Tolerance Test.

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) affects more than 50 000 pregnant women in Germany every year. In postpartum diabetes screening, a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGT) is recommended. This is time-consuming and can have side effects, and only 40% of mothers take it. The determination of pre-test probabilities might obviate the need for OGT except in women who are at particular risk. We analyzed 5444 cases of GDM from the GestDiab registry over the period 2015-2019. The pretest probabilities of a postpartum diagnosis of diabetes mellitus (DM) or prediabetes were calculated on the basis of clinical variables including postpartum venous fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). In 0.77% of mothers with a history of GDM in whom DM was not detected by FPG or HbA1c, postpartum DM was diagnosed on the basis of the 2-hour value in the OGT. Individual estimation of the pre-test probability of a diagnosis by OGT of postpartum DM or prediabetes was possible with the aid of the FPG and HbA1c values and clinical predictors including insulin treatment during pregnancy, obesity, GDM diagnosed before 24 weeks of gestation, age over 35, and a 1-hour value in the diagnostic OGT during pregnancy of 180 mg/dL (10.0 mmol/L) or above. The pretest probability of postpartum DM in the study group ranged from 0.11% to 4.17%, and that of postpartum prediabetes from 6.4% to 16.3%. The probability of a diagnosis of postpartum diabetes by OGT after GDM can be estimated in postpartum screening on the basis of various parameters. This enables risk-adapted counseling of the affected women along with a long-term strategy for diabetes prevention and follow-up. The findings of our study should be verified by further research.

Efficacy of a phone reminder to improve adherence to post-partum glucose tolerance testing after gestational diabetes and clinical predictors of post-partum follow-up compliance

AimTo assess the effectiveness of a phone reminder to improve adherence to post-partum glucose tolerance testing in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and to identify clinical predictors of adherence to post-partum follow-up. MethodsRetrospective study including 543 women with GDM. We assessed the adherence rate to post-partum glucose tolerance testing in women who received a phone reminder (n = 297) compared to women not alerted (n = 246). Demographic and clinical variables were collected to identify the predictors of adherence to the post-partum oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). ResultsThe adherence to post-partum OGTT was higher in women who received the phone reminder compared to those not alerted (60.6 % vs. 35.4 %, p < 0.001). Women less compliant compared to those more compliant, had a higher pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) (29.3 ± 7.9 vs. 27.0 ± 6.1 Kg/m2, p = 0.03). The adherence was lower in pre-pregnant obese compared to non-obese women (42.7 % vs. 52.0 %, p < 0.05), in women with only one, compared to multiple OGTT alterations during pregnancy (44.5 % vs. 57.8 %, p < 0.05), and in women non-insulin treated compared to those insulin-treated (40.0 % vs. 57.1 % vs, p < 0.001). ConclusionsThe phone reminder improved post-partum follow-up adherence. Pre-pregnancy BMI, number of OGTT alterations and type of therapy could identify poorly adherent women.

The Impact of Undetected Hyperglycaemia During Pregnancy on Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes.

Despite clear diagnostic criteria for hyperglycaemia first detected in pregnancy, many pregnant women do not have the proper diagnosis. The following paper analyses the course of the perinatal period in pregnant women with undetected hyperglycaemia and their newborns. Medical data of patients hospitalized in the Department of Perinatology between 2020 and 2022 was verified: 1st group: 40 patients with undetected hyperglycaemia, 2nd group: 40 with the diagnosis of gestational diabetes during pregnancy and adequate therapeutic management. The course of the perinatal period, abnormalities in the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and the compliance with recommended postpartum tests were analysed. There were significant differences in the newborn weights (p=0.039) - in the 1st group 15% large for gestational age (LGA) vs. 0% in the 2nd, and the occurrence of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia requiring phototherapy (p=0.007) - 22.5% in the 1st group vs. 2.5% in the 2nd. The most common mistake in the OGTT was evaluation of fasting plasma glucose. In the 1st group, no effect on incidence of hypertensive disorders, time or the route of delivery was observed. 75% from the 1st group and 36% from the 2nd did not perform postpartum OGTT (p=0.003). Hyperglycaemia in pregnancy is often undetected, which has a negative impact, especially on the neonates. In our study, LGA and hyperbilirubinaemia were significantly more common in neonates of mothers with undetected hyperglycaemia. These women had significantly more careless attitude to the postpartum diagnostic, which may influence future health and course of subsequent pregnancies. New and more effective methods of educating practitioners need to be implemented.

The predictive ability of the triglyceride glucose index, fasting glucose and oral glucose tolerance test for postpartum hyperglycemia in women with a GDM history

Objective This study aimed to determine the likelihood of hyperglycemia postpartum in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and to identify the predictors. Methods The retrospective cohort study involved 1 527 GDM patients who delivered at Peking University First Hospital from 1 January 2021, to 31 December 2021. According to the blood glucose level of postpartum oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), women were divided into a normal glucose tolerance (NGT) group and a hyperglycemia group, and their characteristics and risk factors of hyperglycemia were compared. Results The prevalence of hyperglycemia was 33.9% (184/543) at 6–12 weeks postpartum. Compared with the NGT group, the fasting plasma glucose (FPG) of hyperglycemia group increased significantly during pregnancy and postpartum, the OGTT 1h postprandial glucose (PG) and 2hPG increased in the second trimester of pregnancy, the triglyceride (TG) increased in the first trimester of pregnancy and postpartum, the triglyceride glucose (TyG) index increased in the first trimester of pregnancy and postpartum, and the total cholesterol (TCHO) and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) decreased in the second trimester (p < 0.05). Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) in the first trimester [odds ratio (OR) = 3.583, p < 0.001], OGTT 2hPG in the second trimester (OR = 1.604, p < 0.001), the TyG index in the first trimester (OR = 1.863, p = 0.045) and FPG in third trimester (OR = 1.985, p = 0.024) were independent risk factors for postpartum hyperglycemia. Conclusions Approximately one-third of women with GDM have hyperglycemia 6–12 weeks after delivery. FPG and the TyG index in the first trimester, OGTT 2hPG in the second trimester and FPG in third trimester are risk factors for postpartum hyperglycemia.

Integrated health system intervention aimed at reducing type 2 diabetes risk in women after gestational diabetes in South Africa (IINDIAGO): a randomised controlled trial protocol

IntroductionSouth Africa has a high prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM; 15%) and many of these women (48%) progress to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) within 5 years post partum....

Diabetes Group Prenatal Care: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

To estimate the effect of diabetes group prenatal care on rates of preterm birth and large for gestational age (LGA) among patients with diabetes in pregnancy compared with individual diabetes prenatal care. We searched Ovid Medline (1946-), Embase.com (1947-), Scopus (1823-), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ClinicalTrials.gov . We searched electronic databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies comparing diabetes group prenatal care with individual care among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus or gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The primary outcomes were preterm birth before 37 weeks of gestation and LGA (birth weight at or above the 90th percentile). Secondary outcomes were small for gestational age, cesarean delivery, neonatal hypoglycemia, neonatal intensive care unit admission, breastfeeding at hospital discharge, long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) uptake, and 6-week postpartum visit attendance. Secondary outcomes, limited to the subgroup of patients with GDM, included rates of GDM requiring diabetes medication (A2GDM) and completion of postpartum oral glucose tolerance testing (OGTT). Heterogeneity was assessed with the Cochran Q test and I2 statistic. Random-effects models were used to calculate pooled relative risks (RRs) and weighted mean differences. Eight studies met study criteria and were included in the final analysis: three RCTs and five observational studies. A total of 1,701 patients were included in the pooled studies: 770 (45.3%) in diabetes group prenatal care and 931 (54.7%) in individual care. Patients in diabetes group prenatal care had similar rates of preterm birth compared with patients in individual care (seven studies: pooled rates 9.5% diabetes group prenatal care vs 11.5% individual care, pooled RR 0.77, 95% CI, 0.59-1.01), which held for RCTs and observational studies. There was no difference between diabetes group prenatal care and individual care in rates of LGA overall (four studies: pooled rate 16.7% diabetes group prenatal care vs 20.2% individual care, pooled RR 0.93, 95% CI, 0.59-1.45) or by study type. Rates of other secondary outcomes were similar between diabetes group prenatal care and individual care, except patients in diabetes group prenatal care were more likely to receive postpartum LARC (three studies: pooled rates 46.1% diabetes group prenatal care vs 34.1% individual care, pooled RR 1.44, 95% CI, 1.09-1.91). When analysis was limited to patients with GDM, there were no differences in rates of A2GDM or postpartum visit attendance, but patients in diabetes group prenatal care were significantly more likely to complete postpartum OGTT (five studies: pooled rate 74.0% diabetes group prenatal care vs 49.4% individual care, pooled RR 1.58, 95% CI, 1.19-2.09). Patients with type 2 diabetes and GDM who participate in diabetes group prenatal care have similar rates of preterm birth, LGA, and other pregnancy outcomes compared with those who participate in individual care; however, they are significantly more likely to receive postpartum LARC, and those with GDM are more likely to return for postpartum OGTT. PROSPERO, CRD42021279233.

THU313 Lactation As A Possible Protective Factor For Postpartum Diabetes In Women With Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Retrospective Analysis

Abstract Disclosure: V.R. Dávila-Parrilla: None. C. Stanton: None. C. Hackerson: None. H. Song: None. J.R. Hens: None. J.J. Wysolmerski: None. A. Merriam: None. R. Belfort De Aguiar: Research Investigator; Self; Fractyl Laboratories. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with a variety of health issues for the developing babies, and it has long-term implications to the mother’s health such as increased risk of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Prior studies have shown that lactation appears to protect women with GDM against development of T2DM. A retrospective analysis was performed to better characterize the population of women with GDM seen at the Yale New Haven Hospital (YNHH) and evaluate the potential effects of lactation on postpartum diabetic/pre-diabetic status. We hypothesized that mothers who chose exclusive lactation would have an improvement in postpartum oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) results when compared to those who chose exclusive formula feeding or a combination of both. Medical records of 71 women with GDM followed at the Maternal-Fetal Clinic (MFM) with singleton and who delivered at YNHH were identified and data were collected from chart review. All women were scheduled for a ∼6-8 weeks postpartum visit. Of these, 55 (77%) attended their visit and completed an OGTT. Their average age was 33±5 y.o, pre-pregnancy BMI was 33.8±7.1 and post-partum BMI was 31.1±10.7 kg/m². Racial distribution was: 62% Caucasian, 18% African American, 13% Asian women and a 7% chose “not listed” category. During pregnancy, patients’ GDM was treated with dietary modifications only (45.5%), insulin (45.5%) or metformin (9.1%). When looking at preferred infant feeding practices, 44% of mothers chose exclusive lactation, 27% formula fed exclusively, and 29% preferred using mixed feeding (both formula and lactation). A significant difference was found when comparing infant feeding practice by race with 50% Caucasian choosing exclusive lactation in contrast to 15% of African American (P=0.056). There were no significant differences in BMI pre-pregnancy and postpartum between groups when sorting by infant feeding practices. However, BMI at the time of post-partum OGTT was higher in women that did not lactate in comparison to the women that exclusively formula fed (28.9±13, 36.1±6.7, P=0.05). Based on post-partum OGTT, 71% normalized to healthy status while 22% were diagnosed with pre-DM and 7% T2DM. No significant differences in fasting and 2-hour glucose levels were observed when comparing infant feeding practices. DM status was not affected by race or BMI. We observed that almost one third of the women with GDM that came to the 6–8-week postpartum OGTT remained pre-diabetic/diabetic and no beneficial effect of lactation in glucose metabolism was noted. We speculate that longer duration of lactation is needed for the protective effects of lactation in preventing dysglycemia to be noted. Presentation: Thursday, June 15, 2023

Universal Screening of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus In Upper Egypt: Prospective Cohort Study of The Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Short-Term Outcomes

Background: Despite the high prevalence of diabetes mellitus in Egypt, the real prevalence and epidemiology of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in Upper Egypt is still lacking. Objective: This study aims to determine the prevalence and risk factors of GDM among pregnant women in Upper Egypt and to evaluate the foetal and maternal outcomes of this disease. Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted between July 2014 and July 2018. Universal screening for GDM among all pregnant women attending primary health care clinics was done using Diabetes in Pregnancy Study Group of India (DIPSI) criteria. Those with GDM were followed up until the end of purpureum. Maternal and foetal outcomes were recorded. Results: GDM was diagnosed in 956 out of 7141 pregnant women (13.4%). Previous history of GDM, macrosomic babies, and family history of diabetes were all significantly higher in GDM women (P&lt;0.001 each). However, no definite risk factors were observed in about half of the GDM women. 29% of GDM women responded to medical nutrition therapy (MNT) alone. When the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was repeated Postpartum, diagnosis of DM was established in 14.3% of the cohort, while 25.7% had impaired glucose tolerance. Conclusions: The prevalence of GDM is relatively high in Upper Egypt. Half of GDM cases lack risk factors. Universal screening using OGTT should be routinely performed to all attendant pregnant ladies. Discrete MNT is not an enough management in most of GDM cases. Keywords: GDM; Postpartum OGTT; diabetes; MNT; foetal outcome; maternal outcome.

Variant rs17619600 in the gene encoding serotonin receptor 2B (HTR2B) increases the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus: a case–control study

BackgroundDuring pregnancy, the increase in maternal insulin resistance is compensated by hyperplasia and increased function of maternal pancreatic beta cells; the failure of this compensatory mechanism is associated with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Serotonin participates in beta cell adaptation, acting downstream of the prolactin pathway; the blocking of serotonin receptor B (HTR2B) signaling in pregnant mice impaired beta cell expansion and caused glucose intolerance. Thus, given the importance of the serotoninergic system for the adaptation of beta cells to the increased insulin demand during pregnancy, we hypothesized that genetic variants (single nucleotide polymorphisms [SNPs]) in the gene encoding HTR2B could influence the risk of developing GDM.MethodsThis was a case–control study. Five SNPs (rs4973377, rs765458, rs10187149, rs10194776, and s17619600) in HTR2B were genotyped by real-time polymerase chain reaction in 453 women with GDM and in 443 pregnant women without GDM.ResultsOnly the minor allele C of SNP rs17619600 conferred an increased risk for GDM in the codominant model (odds ratio [OR] 2.15; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.53–3.09; P < 0.0001) and in the rare dominant model (OR 2.32; CI 1.61–3.37; P < 0.0001). No associations were found between the SNPs and insulin use, maternal weight gain, newborn weight, or the result of postpartum oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). In the overall population, carriers of the XC genotype (rare dominant model) presented a higher area under the curve (AUC) of plasma glucose during the OGTT, performed for diagnostic purposes, compared with carriers of the TT genotype of rs17619600.ConclusionsSNP rs17619600 in the HTR2B gene influences glucose homeostasis, probably affecting insulin release, and the presence of the minor allele C was associated with a higher risk of GDM.

Postpartum Glucose Tolerance Testing Among Patients With Gestational Diabetes During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic.

Introduction The impact of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) COVID-19 pandemic on the care of pregnant patients with gestational diabetes (GDM)is largely unreported. The objective of this study was to compare the completion of postpartum oral glucose tolerance testing (GTT) prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic among patients with GDM. Methods This was a retrospective review of patients diagnosed with GDM between April 2019 and March 2021. Medical records of patients diagnosed with GDM prior to and during the pandemic were compared. The primary outcome was the difference in the completion of postpartum GTT prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Completion was defined as testing between four weeks to six months postpartum. Secondary objectives were: 1) to compare maternal and neonatal outcomes prior to and during the pandemic among patients with GDM, and 2) to compare pregnancy characteristics and outcomes by compliance with postpartum GTT. Results There were 185 patients included in the study, of whom 83 (44.9%) delivered prior to the pandemic and 102 (55.1%) delivered during the pandemic. There was no difference in completion of postpartum diabetes testing prior,compared to during the pandemic (27.7% vs 33.3%, p=0.47). Postpartum diagnosis of pre-diabetes and type two diabetes mellitus (T2DM) did not differ between groups (p=0.36 and p=1.00, respectively). Patients who completed postpartum testing were less likely to have preeclampsia with severe features compared to patients who did not (OR 0.08, 95% CI 0.01-0.96,p=0.02). Conclusion Completion of postpartum testing for T2DM remained poor prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings underscore the need for the adoption of more accessible methods of postpartum testing for T2DM among patients with GDM.

Gestational diabetes mellitus- can we do better with postpartum diabetes screening?

Patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are at risk for developing type-2 DM. Pregnancy and the postpartum period are a window of opportunity for medical intervention which may improve patients’ future health. The standard recommendation following GDM is a 75-gram oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) 6-12 weeks postpartum. At our hospital, fasting glucose (FG) is obtained from all parturients with GDM 24-48 hours postpartum. We sought to compare the correlation between the postpartum FG value and the results of the OGTT 6-12 weeks postpartum. We reviewed computerized medical records of all patients with a diagnosis of GDM who gave birth at our institution during 2021, and performed an OGTT 6-12 weeks postpartum. We examined the strength of FG as a predictor for an abnormal OGTT. A total of 319 patients met our inclusion criteria. FG was normal in 261 cases (82%), and abnormal in 58 (18%). Most patients had a normal OGTT (229, 72%), however, postpartum OGTT was abnormal in 90 patients (28%). Of them, 84 (93%) were diagnosed with impaired fasting glucose (IFG) or impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), and only 6 patients (7%) were found to have overt DM. A univariate analysis showed a significant correlation between abnormal FG and pathological postpartum OGTT (p=0.001, Pearson’s correlation 0.186). A multivariate analysis also demonstrated FG as a good predictor for IFG or IGT with an adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 1.028 (p=0.048, CI 1.000-1.056). FG as a predictor for overt DM had an adjusted OR of 1.126 (p=0.012, CI 1.026-1.235). Postpartum FG had modest sensitivity for IGT and for DM (31% and 33% respectively). However, the specificity was high for both (87% and 82% respectively), with a negative predictive value (NPV) of 76% for IGF or IGT and 98% for DM. Fasting glucose 24-48 hours postpartum is a good predictor of a pathological OGTT 6-12 weeks postpartum. As the compliance for completing an OGTT is low, we may consider using FG as a tool for predicting future DM.

Prevalence of gestational diabetes and recourse to postpartum oral glucose tolerance test in the Autonomous Province of Trento (Italy)

ObjectiveThe occurrence of gestational diabetes (GDM) is increasing worldwide, and such a diagnosis is important for women's health beyond pregnancy. Therefore, many guidelines suggest the re-evaluation of glucose tolerance with a postpartum oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in women with GDM. This study reports the prevalence of GDM and the use of a postpartum OGTT in women assisted at maternity units in the Autonomous Province of Trento in the years 2017–2018, investigating the socio-demographic and health-care variables that can facilitate access to the test. Study designFor the diagnosis of GDM, the International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Group criteria were used. The Birth Assistance Certificate and the Hospital Information System were used to retrieve clinical and socio-demographic data. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate the stratification of the use of a postpartum OGTT. ResultsIn total, 8,308 pregnant women were assisted at the maternity units in Trento. There were 532 recorded cases of GDM (266 cases per year) and the overall average prevalence was 6.4 % (95 % CI, 5.90–6.90), 4.9 % of whom were Italian (95 % CI, 4.38–5.42) and 10.4 %, foreigners (95 % CI, 9.13–11.67).135 women diagnosed with GDM and residing in Trento out of 513 were evaluated using a postpartum OGTT (26.3%, CI 95% 22.50–30.10), with pathological results in 61 cases (45.2%). In the multivariate analyses, insulin therapy during pregnancy, delivery at a third-level birth point, and a discharge letter informing of the presence of GDM and of the need for a postpartum OGTT were independent factors associated with the probability of carrying out a postpartum OGTT. ConclusionsThe prevalence of GDM in our study is lower than in previous Italian studies; however, it is consistent with European data. The proportion of women who were assessed using the postpartum OGTT is lower than that reported by previous studies. The health-care factors seem predominant among the socio-demographic characteristics of the cases in influencing access to the test. The awareness of women, the sharing of guidelines among the different sectors of the health system, and an optimal management of the discharge from the birth point are critical in ensuring an optimal follow-up in women with GDM.

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in a Multi-Ethnic, High-Risk Population: Adequacy of Screening for Diabetes Mellitus 6 Weeks after Delivery.

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) during pregnancy is a marker for future type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM); therefore, a meticulous follow-up after delivery can help identify women at risk for T2DM. In a cohort of 5504 pregnant women, the postpartum follow-up of all 1043 women with GDM for hyperglycemia in a multi-ethnic, high-risk Arab population was investigated. The prevalence of GDM was 18.9%. A total of 265 (25.4%) women returned for an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) 4-6 weeks after delivery, with more South Asian than Arab women (p < 0.01). The other factors associated with return were (a) family history of T2DM, (b) lower basic metabolic index, (c) higher abortions and (d) lower gravida (p < 0.05), all with minimal effect. An abnormal postpartum OGTT was statistically associated with previous GDM history and hypoglycemic drug treatment, although these effects were small. Overall, the follow-up of women with GDM postpartum was dismal, ethnicity being the major factor influencing return. Urgent public measures are needed to educate women with GDM about follow-up highlighting (a) risk awareness for T2DM and (b) a healthy lifestyle after childbirth-if we are to turn the tide on the epidemic of T2DM plaguing the Arab world.

Maternal height as a predictor of glucose intolerance in the postpartum and its relationship with maternal pre-gestational weight.

Short stature predicts higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. We studied the association between height and glucose intolerance in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and whether this association differed according to body mass index (BMI). Retrospective study of the Portuguese GDM registry. missing data on postpartum oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) or BMI. postpartum glucose intolerance (diabetes mellitus or prediabetes on the 6-8weeks postpartum OGTT). Women were divided by mean height and compared. A multivariate logistic regression was used, and the analysis was stratified by BMI (cut-off: 30kg/m2) and interaction was tested. We included 7402 women; mean height was 161.9 ± 6.2cm. Taller women had lower BMI and lower rates of glucose intolerance (6.8 vs. 8.8%, p = 0.002). Women with BMI < 30kg/m2 were taller than those with obesity. Height associated with glucose intolerance. The multivariate adjusted OR of glucose intolerance was 0.98 (95% CI 0.96-0.99), p = 0.001, per 1cm increase in height. This association was only observed in women with BMI < 30kg/m2: OR 0.97 (95% CI 0.95-0.99), < 0.001. There was no such association in women with BMI ≥ 30kg/m2: OR 0.99 (95% CI 0.97-1.02), p = 0.65. P for interaction between BMI and height was 0.09. In non-obese pre-gestational women, height is inversely associated with postpartum glucose intolerance. Per 1cm increase in height, women present a 3% decrease in the risk of developing diabetes mellitus or prediabetes.

Type 1 diabetes-related autoimmune antibodies in women with gestational diabetes mellitus and the long-term risk for glucose intolerance.

AimsTo characterize women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) positive for type 1 diabetes-related autoimmune antibodies (T1D-related autoantibodies) in pregnancy and to evaluate their risk for long-term glucose intolerance.MethodsIn a multi-centric prospective cohort study with 1843 women receiving universal screening for GDM with a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), autoantibodies were measured in women with GDM: insulin autoantibodies (IAA), islet cell antibodies (ICA), insulinoma-associated protein-2 antibodies (IA-2A) and glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies (GADA). Long-term follow-up ( ± 4.6 years after delivery) with a 75 g OGTT and re-measurement of autoantibodies was done in women with a history of GDM and autoantibody positivity in pregnancy.ResultsOf all women with GDM (231), 80.5% (186) received autoantibody measurement at a mean of 26.2 weeks in pregnancy, of which 8.1% (15) had one positive antibody (seven with IAA, two with ICA, four with IA-2A and two with GADA). Characteristics in pregnancy were similar but compared to women without autoantibodies, women with autoantibodies had more often gestational hypertension [33.3% (5) vs. 1.7% (3), p<0.001] and more often neonatal hypoglycemia [40.0% (6) vs. 12.5% (19), p=0.012]. Among 14 of the 15 autoantibody positive women with an early postpartum OGTT, two had impaired fasting glucose (IFG). Of the 12 women with long-term follow-up data, four tested again positive for T1D-related autoantibodies (three positive for IA-2A and one positive for ICA and IAA). Five women were glucose intolerant at the long-term follow-up of which two had IA-2A (one had IFG and one had T1D) and three without autoantibodies. There were no significant differences in long-term characteristics between women with and without autoantibodies postpartum.ConclusionsSystematic screening for T1D-related autoantibodies in GDM does not seem warranted since the low positivity rate for autoantibodies in pregnancy and postpartum. At 4.6 years postpartum, five out of 12 women were glucose intolerant but only two still had autoantibodies. In women with clinically significant increased autoantibody levels during pregnancy, postpartum autoantibody re-measurement seems useful since the high risk for further increase of autoantibody levels.

Reactive hypoglycaemia during the OGTT after gestational diabetes mellitus: Metabolic implications and evolution.

Gestational diabetes (GDM) presents an increased cardio-metabolic risk and is diagnosed with an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Reactive hypoglycaemia (RH) during the OGTT in pregnancy is associated with adverse outcomes. Although postpartum OGTT after GDM is recommended, the occurrence and implications of RH are unknown. We investigated the prevalence, metabolic implications and longitudinal evolution of RH at 6-8 weeks postpartum in women with a history of GDM. Between 2011 and 2021, we consecutively followed 1237 women with previous GDM undergoing an OGTT at 6-8 weeks postpartum. RH was defined as 2-h glucose <3.9 mmoL/L after the OGTT. Metabolic outcomes were compared in women with and without RH (RH+/RH-). We also included a subcohort of 191 women with data on insulin sensitivity/secretion indices (MATSUDA, HOMA-IR, insulin-adjusted-secretion ISSI-2). The postpartum prevalence of RH was 12%. RH+ women had a more favourable metabolic profile including a 2-5-times lower prevalence of glucose intolerance and metabolic syndrome at 6-8 weeks postpartum compared to RH- (all p ≤ 0.034). In the subcohort, women with RH+ had higher insulin sensitivity, higher ISSI-2 and an earlier glucose peak after OGTT (p ≤ 0.049) compared to RH- women at the same time point. Insulin resistance increased and ISSI-2 decreased over the first year postpartum in both groups. These changes were associated with a 50% reduction in overall RH prevalence at 1-year postpartum. Some of the favourable profiles of RH+ persisted at 1-year postpartum, without group differences in the longitudinal metabolic changes. At 6-8 weeks postpartum, RH was frequent in women after GDM and associated with a better metabolic profile including increased insulin sensitivity and higher insulin-adjusted-secretory capacity. RH might be a marker of favourable metabolic prognosis in women with a history of GDM.