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Gestational diabetes and maternal third-trimester blood count.
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Hong Kong, Tsan Yuk Hospital, Hong Kong, SAR, China. laotth@hkucc.hku.hk
The Journal of Reproductive Medicine
|May 16, 2002
Summary
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in late pregnancy alters maternal blood counts. Women with GDM showed higher hemoglobin and hematocrit, and lower white blood cells compared to controls.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Hematology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common pregnancy complication.
- Maternal blood count changes are typical during pregnancy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of third-trimester gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) on maternal blood counts in non-anemic women.
Main Methods:
- Prospective observational study involving blood sampling at 28-30 and 36-38 weeks gestation.
- Complete blood counts were compared between women with and without GDM.
Main Results:
- Women with GDM (13.8%) had higher hemoglobin, red cell count, and hematocrit at 36-38 weeks.
- Lower white cell count was observed in the GDM group at 36-38 weeks.
- These changes, except for platelets, mirrored and amplified normal pregnancy-related alterations.
Conclusions:
- Third-trimester GDM is linked to distinct maternal blood count changes beyond normal gestational effects.
- These alterations are likely due to the pathological influence of diabetes during pregnancy.