Diabetes mellitus in pregnancy, childbirth, and the puerperium Save

Diabetes Mellitus in Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Puerperium

Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood glucose levels due to a deficiency in insulin production or the body's inability to use insulin effectively. Diabetes Mellitus can affect women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the puerperium.

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy. It affects approximately 4% of pregnancies and is characterized by high blood glucose levels that can lead to complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

Women who have GDM are at an increased risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus later in life. The risk can be reduced by maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, and following a healthy diet.

1. Risk Factors for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: Women who are overweight or obese, have a family history of diabetes, have had GDM in a previous pregnancy, or have polycystic ovary syndrome are at an increased risk of developing GDM.
2. Complications of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: GDM can lead to complications during pregnancy, such as preeclampsia, preterm labor, and stillbirth. It can also increase the risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus later in life for both the mother and the child.
3. Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: GDM is diagnosed through a glucose tolerance test between 24-28 weeks of pregnancy. Women who have risk factors for GDM may be screened earlier in their pregnancy.
4. Treatment of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: Treatment for GDM includes lifestyle modifications such as following a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and monitoring blood glucose levels. Some women may also require medication or insulin therapy to manage their blood glucose levels.

It is important for women with GDM to receive proper medical care and monitoring during pregnancy, childbirth, and the puerperium. With proper care and management, women with GDM can have healthy pregnancies and deliver healthy babies.

Overall, Diabetes Mellitus can have serious implications for women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the puerperium. It is important for women to receive proper medical care and management to prevent complications and ensure the health of both the mother and the child.