Mother's Day is a special occasion to celebrate the amazing women who bring us into this world. However, for mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), this joyous day may be overshadowed by concerns about their health and that of their unborn child. 

Fortunately, recent research has shown that early diagnosis and treatment of GDM can result in significant benefits for both mother and baby. On the occasion of Mother’s Day, let's explore how identifying and managing GDM during pregnancy can help ensure a happy and healthy future for all involved.

What is Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes is the occurrence or first detection of diabetes during pregnancy. It occurs when the pregnancy hormones interfere with how your body uses insulin. Women who develop gestational diabetes are at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease later on in life.

How can diabetes impact pregnant women and their infants?

Pregnancy is a vulnerable time, and uncontrolled diabetes can have severe adverse effects and implications on the health of expecting mothers and their infants. High blood glucose levels during pregnancy can lead to complications such as pre-eclampsia, premature birth, or even stillbirths and congenital anomalies.

GDM also puts infants at an increased risk for various medical conditions after birth such as hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), breathing problems or respiratory distress syndrome and jaundice. They are also more prone to obesity and type 2 diabetes later in life.

Therefore, it is essential for all pregnant women to get tested to rule out diabetes. This is also a mandate of Govt. of India now. It is better to do the first blood glucose test in the first trimester itself. Early diagnosis allows physicians to monitor glucose levels closely and provide prompt treatment, if necessary, thereby reducing risks involved with GDM altogether.

The recent TOBOGM study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, in which we at the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation were also collaborators and co-authors, was conducted at 17 hospitals worldwide in 4 countries – Australia, India, Sweden and Austria. 

The study showed that diagnosing and treating GDM before 20 weeks gestation led to significantly lower rates of severe neonatal complications Furthermore, early treatment also resulted in reduced time spent in the neonatal intensive care units.

As we celebrate Mother's Day, it is crucial to increase awareness about GDM and teach people how it affects not only mothers but also their offspring. Early detection and management of this condition are essential to prevent complications during pregnancy, delivery, and beyond. 

Women who suspect they may have GDM must seek prompt medical advice so that they receive proper monitoring throughout their pregnancy. We wish you all a Happy Mother's Day!