Background

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common metabolic disorders during pregnancy and is associated with significant maternal and neonatal complications. The global prevalence of GDM has increased substantially due to rising maternal age, obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and changes in dietary patterns. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are critical for reducing adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Objective

To assess the impact of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus on maternal and neonatal outcomes and identify factors associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes among women diagnosed with GDM.

Methods

A multicenter prospective observational study was conducted among 1,250 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics between January 2023 and December 2024. Participants were categorized into GDM (n=420) and non-GDM (n=830) groups based on oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) results. Maternal complications, delivery outcomes, and neonatal outcomes were compared between groups using descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

The prevalence of GDM was 33.6%. Women with GDM had significantly higher rates of pregnancy-induced hypertension (18.1% vs. 8.5%), cesarean section (42.6% vs. 24.7%), preterm birth (15.4% vs. 8.2%), and macrosomia (19.8% vs. 7.4%). Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions were more frequent among infants born to mothers with GDM (16.2% vs. 7.8%). Poor glycemic control was independently associated with adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Conclusion

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus significantly increases the risk of maternal and neonatal complications. Early screening, optimal glycemic control, and multidisciplinary management are essential to improve pregnancy outcomes.