PETALING JAYA: A hormone produced by the placenta prevents some pregnant women from using insulin effectively, a condition known as gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).
While it usually goes away after they give birth, the condition could come back in future pregnancies, said obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Milton Lum.
“They are more likely to develop GDM in future pregnancies and Type 2 diabetes later in life,” he said, adding that Health Ministry data shows 21.95% of patients suffer from diabetes during their pregnancy.He said a body mass index of more than 27kg/m2, previous history of GDM, family history such as a first-degree relative having diabetes, a history of foetal macrosomia, a bad obstetric history and high glycosuria of (>2+) on two occasions are some of the risk factors.
Hypertension, polyhydramnios (excessive accumulation of amniotic fluids) and current use of steroids are other risk factors.
On prevention, Dr Lum said preconception care by a multidisciplinary team is important.
Pre-existing diabetics must be informed of glycaemic targets and empowered to achieve control before conception.
He added that counselling on the risks and management of diabetes in pregnancy is also important.
He said women should also take precautionary measures such as being informed of GDM and diabetes, do pre-pregnancy check-ups, and finally adhere to antenatal clinic appointments, medical advice and the treatments prescribed.
