Prevalence and clinical burden of Gestational diabetes mellitus at a tertiary care centre in Kozhikode Kerala, India

Abstract

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common medical complications of pregnancy. It has serious health implications like preeclampsia, caesarean delivery and Type 2 diabetes in mother later. This research was done to assess the prevalence , risk factors and foetal birth weights of mothers with GDM in a tertiary care in North Kerala. Methods: Descriptive cross sectional study conducted in Department of OBG, KMCT Medical College Kozhikode ,Kerala from Jan 2018 -Jan 2021 where 189 women who are diagnosed to have GDM were studied to assess the maternal and foetal outcome. Maternal and foetal outcome was studied. Results: The incidence of GDM in the population studied was 5.78%. 44.4% were in 25-29 years group. 63% of these diabetic mothers were overweight and obese. Pre-eclampsia complicating pregnancy was noted in 26% patients. 65.6% needed insulin therapy with MNT and exercise. Weight gain of 9- 12 kg was noted in 69.8% of GDM mothers. Mean baby weight was 3185.85gms. 55.55% patients delivered vaginally. 18 /189 deliveries were vacuum assisted. 46 % patients underwent LSCS. Conclusions: Gestational diabetes complicating pregnancy has both adverse maternal and foetal outcome. Timely identification and counselling regarding glycaemic control of mothers and surveillance of foetus will avert maternal and neonatal morbidity .