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Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Carbohydrate intolerance first identified during pregnancy, typically detected at 24 to 28 weeks.

Also: GDM

Driven by placental hormones (especially human placental lactogen) that induce insulin resistance. Untreated GDM increases risk of macrosomia, shoulder dystocia, neonatal hypoglycemia, and preeclampsia. MNT focuses on consistent carbohydrate distribution, glycemic control via self-monitoring, and weight gain within Institute of Medicine targets. Women with GDM have a 30 to 50% lifetime risk of progression to T2DM.

How one textbook covers it

  • Krause and Mahan's Food and the Nutrition Care Process, 16th ed. — Chapter 30

    Driven by placental hormones (especially human placental lactogen) that induce insulin resistance. Untreated GDM increases risk of macrosomia, shoulder dystocia, neonatal hypoglycemia, and preeclampsia. MNT focuses on consistent carbohydrate distribution, glycemic control via self-monitoring, and weight gain within Institute of Medicine targets. Women with GDM have a 30 to 50% lifetime risk of progression to T2DM.

Related terms

Macrosomia, Pregnancy, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus