Gestational diabetes is a common medical complication during pregnancy, impacting thousands of women in the US and one in seven pregnancies globally. This condition arises when a hormone produced by the placenta disrupts the body’s ability to use insulin effectively, leading to elevated blood glucose levels. If left untreated, gestational diabetes can cause various complications, including high blood pressure, increased likelihood of cesarean sections, mental health issues, and delivery complications for the baby. It also heightens the mother’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease later in life.
In many countries, including England, women at risk of gestational diabetes are typically tested between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. However, recent research suggests that this timeframe may be too late to prevent certain complications.
A group of 28 academics from 13 countries is advocating for diabetes testing and treatment to be initiated before 14 weeks of pregnancy, rather than waiting until the third trimester. Their findings, published in three linked papers in The Lancet, reveal that many women exhibit high blood glucose levels within the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. These women often experience worse pregnancy outcomes compared to those whose gestational diabetes develops later. The research indicates that earlier treatment can significantly reduce these risks.
Professor David Simmons of Western Sydney University, the lead author of the research series, emphasizes the urgent need for a significant shift in diagnosing and managing gestational diabetes. He advocates for new systematic approaches to prevention, early treatment, and more comprehensive research to understand the long-term impacts on both mothers and their children.
Dr. Lucy Chambers, head of research communications at Diabetes UK, highlights the importance of this review, noting that early detection and treatment in the first trimester can reduce health risks for both mother and baby. She calls for a reassessment of current antenatal care practices in the UK, which typically involve testing later in pregnancy. Investing in research to improve treatment and support for women diagnosed with gestational diabetes is also crucial.
Amina Hatia, midwifery manager for Tommy’s, a pregnancy research and baby loss charity, supports the shift towards earlier testing. She believes it will lead to better support and more effective management of gestational diabetes, with personalized and specialist care when needed.
For expectant mothers, the message is clear: earlier testing for gestational diabetes could significantly improve pregnancy outcomes and long-term health for both mother and child. As research continues to highlight the benefits of early detection and intervention, healthcare providers need to consider updating current practices to ensure the best possible care for pregnant women.
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