Gestational Diabetes: Even Earlier Treatment Makes Sense to Protect Against Complications

Tests for gestational diabetes are currently routinely offered in the 24th to 28th week of pregnancy according to the specifications of the mother-child passport examinations, so that therapy can only be initiated then if necessary. An international study with the participation of the Medical University of Vienna has now shown for the first time that treatment of gestational diabetes at an even earlier stage of pregnancy offers additional protection for babies and mothers against complications. The results of the study were published in the renowned New England Journal of Medicine. The study examined whether treating gestational diabetes before 20 weeks of pregnancy in women who are already at high risk improves maternal and infant health and leads to a reduction in complications. Currently, testing for gestational diabetes is routinely offered later in pregnancy (24 to 28 weeks), and those women who are at higher risk are also tested early to rule out undiagnosed type 2 diabetes. If these glucose levels are elevated but below guideline levels suggestive of type 2 diabetes, we feel we should treat, but data has been lacking to demonstrate the effects of such treatment on the mother or baby. Co-author Alexandra Kautzky-Willer from MedUni Vienna's Department of Internal Medicine III explains, "Currently, guidelines recommend medical intervention at 24 to 28 weeks in the case of gestational diabetes.