Analysis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Its Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes in a Tertiary Care Hospital: An Observational Study

Abstract

Background: One of the most prevalent metabolic problems of pregnancy is gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), which is linked to serious morbidity in both the mother and the fetus. Obesity, genetic susceptibility, aging mothers, and shifting lifestyles are all factors contributing to the rising incidence of GDM in emerging nations like India. To avoid unfavorable pregnancy outcomes, early detection and effective care are essential.

Objectives: To examine the clinical characteristics, risk factors, outcomes for mothers, and outcomes for newborns among women with gestational diabetes mellitus who visit a tertiary care facility.

Methods: Over the course of eleven months, this observational study was carried out at Darbhanga Medical College and Hospital (DMCH), Darbhanga. The study comprised 130 pregnant women with a diagnosis of GDM. Standard oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) criteria were used to diagnose GDM. Pregnancy outcomes, laboratory tests, clinical factors, obstetric history, and comprehensive demographic information were documented. Maternal outcomes were evaluated, including the kind of delivery, hypertensive conditions, and the need for insulin therapy. Birth weight, macrosomia, hypoglycemia, NICU hospitalization, and prenatal problems were among the newborn outcomes that were examined. Appropriate descriptive and inferential techniques were used in the statistical analysis of the data.

Results: Most patients lived in urban or semi-urban settings and were older than 25. Identifiable risk factors, such as obesity, a family history of diabetes, and prior unfavorable obstetric outcomes, were present in a considerable percentage. The majority of instances were identified in the second trimester. For most patients, medical nutrition therapy was adequate; nevertheless, a small percentage needed insulin therapy. Patients with GDM had greater incidence of cesarean sections. Macrosomia, neonatal hypoglycemia, and NICU admission were among the more common newborn problems.

Conclusion: If not properly treated, gestational diabetes mellitus presents a serious risk to both the mother and the fetus. Negative outcomes for mothers and newborns can be considerably decreased with early screening, prompt diagnosis, and suitable care. It is crucial to improve prenatal screening procedures and patient education, particularly in environments with low resources.

Keywords: Gestational diabetes mellitus; Pregnancy; Maternal outcome; Neonatal outcome; Tertiary care hospital