Ethical Dimensions of Counseling about the Clinical Management of Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is associated with both short- and long-term adverse outcomes for the mother and the child. Glycemic control to improve perinatal outcomes is consistent with the best available evidence and should be recommended. The evidence for interventions to improve long-term outcomes is less robust. Therefore, patients need to be informed of the data, have the limitations explained, and be supported in decision-making. Theoretical risks do not need to be revealed to patients. Enthusiasm for interventions not supported by evidence should not be promoted. This article provides an ethical framework for counseling patients about the management of gestational diabetes.