MATERNAL CHARACTERISTICS AND PERINATAL OUTCOMES ASSOCIATED WITH SCREENING FOR GESTATIONAL DIABETES MELLITUS

Introduction and objective: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) can lead to various adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. Therefore, this study aims to describe the risk factors and outcomes of pregnant women associated with GDM screening. Material and methods: This retrospective study was conducted with 283 pregnant women at a Southern Brazilian University Hospital. Data on GDM screening, including fasting glucose tests and Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT), were collected from the prenatal booklets. Information related to maternal and perinatal outcomes, as well as the socioeconomic status of the pregnant women, was also collected. Results: The positive GDM screening rate in postpartum women was 25.2%, considering fasting glucose alone. However, it increased to 86.4% when considering fasting glucose and the presence of risk factors. There was no significant association between positive GDM screening and maternal and perinatal outcomes, or with socioeconomic status. Nevertheless, fasting glucose levels >= 85 m g/dL were associated with a higher risk of caesarean delivery and other fetal complications, such as hypoglycemia, inadequate newborn weight, and gestational age below 37 weeks at birth. Additionally, GDM screening was significantly associated with the outcome of pre-eclampsia. Conclusion: The study findings indicate that positive GDM screening is associated with a higher risk of caesarean delivery, preeclampsia, and other fetal complications.