View source for B18. Diabetes and pregnancy (screening and management)

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) refers to the development of new-onset diabetes in pregnancy. It usually develops in the second or third trimester.

Pregestational diabetes refers to pregnancies in women who already had diabetes mellitus prior to the pregnancy, most frequently type 2.

Diabetes mellitus in the pregnancy, whether pregestational or gestational, increases the risk for complications in both the mother and the foetus. Both are relatively common conditions. GDM occurs in 5 – 7% of pregnancies, while pregestational diabetes is seen in 1%.