Because gestational diabetes can cause abnormal development in embryos or even fetal death.
It can also predispose the pregnant woman to develop hypertension, prone to infection ,fetal macrosomia or growth restriction, miscarriage, premature delivery and fetal malformation etc.
Patient with history of gestational diabetes or polycystic ovarian syndrome should receive gestational diabetes screening as soon as pregnancy is confirmed.
Other pregnant women without risk for diabetes should receive gestational diabetes screening at 24-28weeks gestation.
Pregnant women diagnosed with gestational diabetes should receive dietary or pharmacotherapy consult under the guidance of a doctor ,and recheck 6-12 weeks postpartum to assess for the development of Type-II diabetes.
Patient with gestational diabetes should receive dietary and pharmacotherapy treatments under the guidance of a
physician and a dietician to ensure the baby's and mother's health.