An update on diabetic women obstetrical outcomes linked to preconception and pregnancy glycemic profile: a systematic literature review

ScientificWorldJournal. 2013 Nov 6:2013:254901. doi: 10.1155/2013/254901.

Abstract

Women with type 2 diabetes were less likely to have diabetes related complications than women with type 1. Women with type 1 diabetes had a high prepregnancy care and showed a worse glycemic control than women with type 2 both in the preconception period and during pregnancy. Obstetrical outcomes showed that preeclampsia and stillbirth rate is almost doubled in type 1 patients while perinatal deaths and SGA importantly increased in type 2 diabetes. In modern obstetrical care it is mandatory to maintain glucose levels as close to normal as possible particularly in diabetic population. HbA1C no higher than 6% before pregnancy and during the first trimester seems to decrease the risk of adverse obstetrical outcomes. Both the preconceptional counseling and glycemic profile optimization represent a fundamental step to improve pregnancy outcomes in women with preexisting diabetes. A systematic approach to family planning and the availability of preconception care for all diabetic women who desire pregnancy could be an essential step for diabetic management program.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / blood*
  • Female
  • Glycemic Index
  • Humans
  • Labor, Obstetric
  • Pre-Eclampsia / blood
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy in Diabetics / blood*
  • Stillbirth*