Review of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacokinetics – International Edition – Volume 38 (2024) – Issue 1

Open Access Literature Review

Gestational diabetes and the risk of type 2 diabetes in postnatal period
Angeliki Bolou¹

, Kleanthi Gourounti²

¹School of Health Sciences, Institute for Lifecourse Development: Centre for Chronic Illness and Ageing, Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences, University of Greenwich, London, UK

²Midwifery Department, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece

*Corresponding author: Kleanthi Gourounti, Associate Professor in Midwifery, Head of Midwifery Department, University of West Attica, Ag.Spyridonos Str., Egaleo, 12243, Athens, Tel: +30 2105385100.
E-mail: clairegourounti@yahoo.gr

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Published: 22 March 2024; https://doi.org/10.61873/EKFH6100

Abstract

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is the most common pregnancy complication, affecting 14% of global pregnan-cies. This literature review emphasizes the importance of developing universal screening and diagnostic criteria inpregnancy. Screening criteria, as outlined by organizations like NICE and WHO, vary, reflecting the ongoing debateabout the most effective diagnostic methods. GDM is linked with significant risk factors, and timely diagnosis enablesintervention strategies to prevent adverse obstetric outcomes. This review underscores the lasting impact of GDM onmaternal health, increasing the risk of Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), particularly in the first five years post-delivery. Despitethis risk, there is a notable gap in preventive care and postnatal screening. Barriers include the absence of a universalprotocol, unclear responsibilities among healthcare professionals, and challenges faced by women in the postnatalperiod. The low uptake of postnatal testing increases potential risks of entering a future pregnancy with undiagnosedtype 2 diabetes. This review highlights the urgent need for effective postpartum interventions, emphasizing educationfor women to prevent type 2 diabetes and ensuring safe subsequent pregnancies. There is a need for comprehensive,universal postnatal care strategies to address the increasing prevalence of type 2 diabetes globally.

Keywords: gestational diabetes, type 2 diabetes, preventive strategies

Please cite as:

Bolou A., Gourounti K.Gestational diabetes and the risk of type 2 diabetes inpostnatal period. Rev. Clin. Pharmacol. Pharmacokinet.Int. Ed. 38 (1): 39-45 (2024). https://doi.org/10.61873/EKFH6100