ABSTRACT
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is defined as glucose intolerance that is first detected during pregnancy. GDM has been associated with both maternal and fetal complications. Patients with GDM are more likely to develop preeclampsia and exhibit a higher risk of development of type II DM. Early fetal complications include macrosomia, congenital defects, neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, and metabolic derangements. Infants born to women with GDM also have a higher risk of hypoglycemia after birth. Late fetal complications include a higher incidence of childhood obesity and the development of type II DM later in life. Screening and treatment of GDM has been associated with a lower incidence of some of these complications.
