Screening and management of gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is a frequent medical condition during pregnancy. It is associated with an increased risk of complications for both the mother and the baby during pregnancy and post partum. The International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups (IADPSG) has proposed a new screening strategy for overt diabetes in pregnancy and screening for GDM. However, there is still a lack of international uniformity in the approach to the screening and diagnosis of GDM. Controversies include universal versus selective screening, the optimal time for screening, appropriate tests and cutoff values, and whether testing should be conducted in one or two steps. This review gives an update on screening for GDM and overt diabetes during pregnancy. We also give an overview on the medical and obstetrical management of GDM.