Insulin resistance and adaptation of pancreatic beta cells during pregnancy

Insulin resistance is described as reduced sensitivity of the body tissues to insulin. In pregnant women insulin resistance increases during each trimester of pregnancy due to the hormones produced by the placenta and many other factors which are not yet fully recognised. Growing insulin resistance leads to an increase in beta cell mass and number and insulin secretion, which helps to maintain glucose homeostasis and normal foetal development. However, in cases of severe insulin resistance, insufficient compensation of pancreatic beta cells or reduced pancreatic beta-cell function, glycaemic levels are increased and gestational diabetes mellitus develops. The aim of the present review is to analyse the factors affecting insulin resistance and the adaptation of pancreatic beta cells during pregnancy and methods of insulin resistance assessment.