Prediabetes in pregnancy - follow-up, treatment, and outcomes compared to overt pregestational diabetes

Objective There are limited data on follow-up, treatment, and maternal and fetal outcomes in women with prediabetes before or at the beginning of pregnancy. The aim of this study was to comprehensively characterize women with prediabetes compared to women with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Study design This was a retrospective cohort data from a single medical center treating women with pregestational prediabetes mellitus (PDM). Women were compared to pregestational overt type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Results Data were collected from 120 women in the PDM group and 86 women in the T2DM group. Baseline characteristics were comparable, albeit women in the PDM group arrived at medical attention significantly later, 55% after 15 weeks gestation. Women with PDM needed significantly less treatment to achieve glycemic control and glycated hemoglobin remained lower throughout pregnancy. Maternal and fetal outcomes were similar between groups, although significantly higher rates of macrosomia and neonatal jaundice were observed in the T2DM group. Conclusions The lack of clear guidelines causes a delay in the first prenatal visit of women with PDM. Comparable pregnancy outcomes may tip the balance toward acceptance of early treatment. Establishing clear guidelines will enable primary caregivers to refer prediabetic women sooner for lifestyle modifications and treatment if needed.

Automated summary

Limited data exists on follow-up, treatment, and outcomes for women with prediabetes before or at the beginning of pregnancy. This study compared women with prediabetes to those with type 2 diabetes mellitus and found similar baseline characteristics, but delayed medical attention in the prediabetes group. The prediabetes group required less treatment for glycemic control and had lower glycosylated hemoglobin levels throughout pregnancy.