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Purpose: Gestational weight gain (GWG) is an important contributor to pregnancy outcomes in the general obstetric population and different subgroups. The corresponding information in women with thyroid conditions is limited. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between GWG according to institute of medicine (IOM) and pregnancy outcomes in women with thyroid disorders. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of 620 pregnant women either treated with levothyroxine (N = 545) or attended because of hyperthyroidism during pregnancy (N = 75). Results: The associations between GWG according to IOM and pregnancy outcomes were present both in women treated with thyroid hormone and women followed by hyperthyroidism, most of them related to the fetal outcomes. In women treated with levothyroxine, insufficient GWG was associated with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) (odds ratio (OR) 2.32, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.18, 4.54), preterm birth (OR 2.31, 95% CI 1.22, 4.36), small-for-gestational age newborns (OR 2.38, 95% CI 1.09, 5.22) and respiratory distress (OR 6.89, 95% CI 1.46, 32.52). Excessive GWG was associated with cesarean delivery (OR 1.66, 95% CI 1.10, 2.51) and macrosomia (OR 2.75, 95% CI 1.38, 5.49). Large-for-gestational age newborns were associated with both insufficient GWG (OR 0.25, 95% CI 0.11, 0.58) and excessive GWG (OR 1.80, 95% CI 1.11, 2.92). In women followed by hyperthyroidism, excessive GWG was associated with large-for-gestational age newborns (OR 5.56, 95% CI 1.03, 29.96). Conclusion: GWG according to IOM is associated with pregnancy outcomes both in women treated with thyroid hormone and women followed by hyperthyroidism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: We aimed to explore the relationship between gestational weight gain (GWG) after Institute of Medicine (IOM) and pregnancy outcomes in women with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Methods: Retrospective cohort study at a tertiary medical center (1981–2011). Outcome variables: 2 maternal and 14 fetal. Main exposure variable: GWG according to IOM. We calculated crude and adjusted ORs as well as population attributable (PAF) and preventable fractions (PPF) for significant positive and negative associations, respectively. Results: We evaluated 633 pregnant women with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. GWG was insufficient (iGWG) in 16.7% and excessive (eGWG) in 50.7%. In the adjusted analysis, GWG according to IOM was significantly associated with maternal outcomes (pregnancy-induced hypertension and cesarean delivery) and four fetal outcomes (large-for-gestational age, macrosomia, small-for-gestational age and neonatal respiratory distress). The association with large-for-gestational age newborns was negative for iGWG (0.48, CI 95% 0.25–0.94) and positive for eGWG (1.76, CI 95% 1.18–2.63). In addition, iGWG was associated with a higher risk of small-for-gestational age newborns and respiratory distress and eGWG with a higher risk of pregnancy-induced hypertension, caesarean delivery and macrosomia. PAF and PPF ranged from the 20.4% PPF of iGWG for large-for-gestational age to 56.5% PAF of eGWG for macrosomia. Conclusion: In this cohort of women with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, inadequate GWG after IOM was associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes; associations were unfavorable for eGWG and mixed for iGWG. The attributable fractions were not moderate, pointing to the potential impact of modifying inadequate GWG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: We aimed to evaluate the effect of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) treatment on medium/long‐term outcomes both the mother and offspring. Methods: We performed a systematic review on randomized clinical trials addressing specific treatment of women with GDM versus usual care and its impact on maternal and offspring outcomes at medium/long‐term. MEDLINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL were searched from inception to 8 October 2021. Outcome variables: maternal (diabetes, metabolic syndrome, 12 secondary); offspring (diabetes, impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance, high body mass index, 15 secondary). Risk of bias was assessed with Cochrane tool and aggregation performed with Revman 5.4. Results: We included five studies (1140 women, 767 offspring) with follow‐up ranging 4–16 years after delivery. GDM treatment likely does not reduce risk of maternal diabetes (RR 1.00; [95% CI 0.82–1.23]) and may not reduce that of metabolic syndrome (RR 0.93; [95% CI 0.71–1.22]). We obtained very uncertain evidence that treatment may increase maternal HDL‐cholesterol. Findings showed that GDM treatment may not have an impact on infants' outcomes (RRs 0.79; [95% CI 0.39–1.69] for impaired fasting glucose; RR 0.91; [95% CI 0.74–1.12] for body mass index >85th centile and 0.89; [95% CI 0.65–1.22] for body mass index >95th centile respectively). Conclusions: With current evidence is uncertain if specific treatment of women with GDM has an impact on medium/long‐term metabolic outcomes either in the mother or in the offspring. These results add evidence to the recommendation of systematically reevaluating mother and offspring after delivery. Registration: OSF, DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/KFN79 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To test whether breastfeeding during the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) affects glucose and insulin outcomes (main outcome: 120 min plasma glucose). Methods: A randomized crossover trial was conducted in 20 women with prior gestational diabetes mellitus. Each woman undertook two OGTTs in the first 3 months after delivery, breastfeeding the infant in one and avoiding breastfeeding in the other. Glucose and insulin were measured at 0, 30, 60 and 120 min. Statistics included: T‐test for paired data, general linear model (GLM) for repeated measures. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to adjust for glucose and insulin values at 0 min. Statistical dispersion for GLM and ANCOVA outcomes is expressed as standard error. Results: In the OGTTs with breastfeeding, higher values were observed for overall glucose and insulin concentrations, glucose and insulin peaks and individual time points of glucose (at 0, 30 and 60 min) and insulin (at 0 and 60 min) but without differences at 120 min (glucose 6.7 ± 0.3 vs. 6.9 ± 0.3 mmol/L, p = 0.506). The rate of abnormal tests was not different. ANCOVA confirmed higher postchallenge glucose values in the OGTT with breastfeeding and similar glucose values at 120 min. Conclusions: According to the results of this randomized trial, we conclude that breastfeeding during the OGTT resulted in similar 120 min glucose concentration and glycaemic status categorization. However, breastfeeding during the OGTT led to clear differences in glucose and insulin values in the first hour, that warrant further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Interactions between polymorphisms of the melatonin receptor 1B (MTNR1B) gene and lifestyle intervention for gestational diabetes have been described. Whether these are specific for physical activity or the healthy eating intervention is unknown. Objectives The aim was to assess the interaction between MTNR1B rs10830962 and rs10830963 polymorphisms and lifestyle interventions during pregnancy. Methods Women with a BMI (in kg/m2) of ≥29 (n  = 436) received counseling on healthy eating (HE), physical activity (PA), or both. The control group received usual care. This secondary analysis had a factorial design with comparison of HE compared with no HE and PA compared with no PA. Maternal outcomes at 24–28 wk were gestational weight gain (GWG), maternal fasting glucose, insulin, insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), disposition index, and development of GDM. Neonatal outcomes were cord blood leptin and C-peptide and estimated neonatal fat percentage. The interaction between receiving either the HE or PA intervention and genotypes of both rs10830962 and rs10830963 was assessed using multilevel regression analysis. Results GDM risk was increased in women homozygous for the G allele of rs10830962 (OR: 2.60; 95% CI: 1.34, 5.06) or rs10830963 (OR: 2.83; 95% CI: 1.24, 6.47). Significant interactions between rs10830962 and interventions were found: in women homozygous for the G allele but not in the other genotypes, the PA intervention reduced maternal fasting insulin (β: –0.16; 95% CI: –0.33, 0.02; P  = 0.08) and HOMA-IR (β: –0.17; 95% CI: –0.35, 0.01; P  = 0.06), and reduced cord blood leptin (β: –0.84; 95% CI: –1.42, –0.25; P  = 0.01) and C-peptide (β: –0.62; 95% CI: –1.07, –0.17; P  = 0.01). In heterozygous women, the HE intervention had no effect, whereas in women homozygous for the C allele, HE intervention reduced GWG (β: −1.6 kg; 95% CI: −2.4, −0.8 kg). No interactions were found. Conclusions In women homozygous for the risk allele of MTNR1B rs10830962, GDM risk was increased and PA intervention might be more beneficial than HE intervention for reducing maternal insulin resistance, cord blood C-peptide, and cord blood leptin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It would derive from these findings that any women with a GDM diagnosis only according to IADPSG criteria was destined to have a LGA newborn and on the other side, that all these LGA newborns would be prevented with a GDM diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Dear Editor, We read with a great interest the meta-analysis of Saccone et al. addressing randomized controlled trials (RCT) on the one step vs two step approach for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) diagnosis [[1]]. [Extracted from the article]

Objective: The optimal method of monitoring glycemia in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes remains controversial. This study aimed to assess the predictive performance of HbA1c, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) metrics, and alternative biochemical markers of glycemia to predict obstetric and neonatal outcomes.Research Design and Methods: One hundred fifty-seven women from the Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Women With Type 1 Diabetes in Pregnancy Trial (CONCEPTT) were included in this prespecified secondary analysis. HbA1c, CGM data, and alternative biochemical markers (glycated CD59, 1,5-anhydroglucitol, fructosamine, glycated albumin) were compared at ∼12, 24, and 34 weeks' gestation using logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves to predict pregnancy complications (preeclampsia, preterm delivery, large for gestational age, neonatal hypoglycemia, admission to neonatal intensive care unit).Results: HbA1c, CGM metrics, and alternative laboratory markers were all significantly associated with obstetric and neonatal outcomes at 24 weeks' gestation. More outcomes were associated with CGM metrics during the first trimester and with laboratory markers (area under the ROC curve generally <0.7) during the third trimester. Time in range (TIR) (63-140 mg/dL [3.5-7.8 mmol/L]) and time above range (TAR) (>140 mg/dL [>7.8 mmol/L]) were the most consistently predictive CGM metrics. HbA1c was also a consistent predictor of suboptimal pregnancy outcomes. Some alternative laboratory markers showed promise, but overall, they had lower predictive ability than HbA1c.Conclusions: HbA1c is still an important biomarker for obstetric and neonatal outcomes in type 1 diabetes pregnancy. Alternative biochemical markers of glycemia and other CGM metrics did not substantially increase the prediction of pregnancy outcomes compared with widely available HbA1c and increasingly available CGM metrics (TIR and TAR). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Offspring of women with type 1 diabetes are at increased risk of fetal growth patterns which are associated with perinatal morbidity. Our aim was to compare rates of large- and small-for-gestational age (LGA; SGA) defined according to different criteria, using data from the Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Type 1 Diabetes Pregnancy Trial (CONCEPTT).Methods: This was a pre-specified analysis of CONCEPTT involving 225 pregnant women and liveborn infants from 31 international centres ( ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01788527; registered 11/2/2013). Infants were weighed immediately at birth and GROW, INTERGROWTH and WHO centiles were calculated. Relative risk ratios, sensitivity and specificity were used to assess the different growth standards with respect to perinatal outcomes, including neonatal hypoglycaemia, hyperbilirubinaemia, respiratory distress, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission and a composite neonatal outcome.Results: Accelerated fetal growth was common, with mean birthweight percentiles of 82.1, 85.7 and 63.9 and LGA rates of 62, 67 and 30% using GROW, INTERGROWTH and WHO standards respectively. Corresponding rates of SGA were 2.2, 1.3 and 8.9% respectively. LGA defined according to GROW centiles showed stronger associations with preterm delivery, neonatal hypoglycaemia, hyperbilirubinaemia and NICU admission. Infants born > 97.7th centile were at highest risk of complications. SGA defined according to INTERGROWTH centiles showed slightly stronger associations with perinatal outcomes.Conclusions: GROW and INTERGROWTH standards performed similarly and identified similar numbers of neonates with LGA and SGA. GROW-defined LGA and INTERGROWTH-defined SGA had slightly stronger associations with neonatal complications. WHO standards underestimated size in preterm infants and are less applicable for use in type 1 diabetes.Trial Registration: This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov . number NCT01788527 . Trial registered 11/2/2013. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To investigate longitudinal associations of maternal glucose/HbA1c and insulin dose with birthweight-related outcomes in women with type 1 diabetes.Methods: We performed a cohort study including 473 pregnant women with type 1 diabetes with singleton pregnancies. We investigated maternal self-monitored blood glucose (SMBG, mmol/L), HbA1c (%, mmol/mol) and insulin dose (IU/kg/day) in the three trimesters as potential independent variables, while adjusting for potential confounders. Outcomes of interest were birthweight, birthweight SD score, neonatal length, weight/length index, ponderal index and placental weight. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed with separate analyses for SMBG and HbA1c .Results: Maternal glucose and insulin dose were independently associated with birthweight-related outcomes. In the main analysis, in the first trimester most associations were positive for insulin dose, in the second the associations were positive for glucose and inverse for insulin while in the third there were no associations. Most sensitivity analyses produced consistent results. In a sensitivity analysis splitting the first trimester in two periods, positive associations of maternal insulin with birthweight-related outcomes were observed in weeks 0+ to 6+.Conclusions: Early in pregnancy in women with type 1 diabetes, maternal insulin dose is positively associated with birthweight-related outcomes, whereas in the second trimester, a positive association with SMBG emerges and the association with maternal insulin becomes inverse. If confirmed in other cohorts, these results would have implications in the management of women with type 1 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Objectives: To investigate the importance of time in pregnancy and neonatal sex on the association between maternal metabolic parameters and neonatal sum of skinfolds. Methods: This was a longitudinal, secondary analysis of the vitamin D and lifestyle intervention for gestational diabetes mellitus study, conducted in nine European countries during 2012 to 2015. Pregnant women with a pre‐pregnancy body mass index (BMI) of ≥29 kg/m2 were invited to participate. We measured 14 maternal metabolic parameters at three times during pregnancy: <20 weeks, 24 to 28 weeks, and 35 to 37 weeks of gestation. The sum of four skinfolds assessed within 2 days after birth was the measure of neonatal adiposity. Results: In total, 458 mother‐infant pairs (50.2% female infants) were included. Insulin resistance (fasting insulin and HOMA‐index of insulin resistance) in early pregnancy was an important predictor for boys' sum of skinfolds, in addition to fasting glucose and maternal adiposity (leptin, BMI and neck circumference) throughout pregnancy. In girls, maternal lipids (triglycerides and fatty acids) in the first half of pregnancy were important predictors of sum of skinfolds, as well as fasting glucose in the second half of pregnancy. Conclusions: Associations between maternal metabolic parameters and neonatal adiposity vary between different periods during pregnancy. This time‐dependency is different between sexes, suggesting different growth strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare glycemic control, quality of life, and pregnancy outcomes of women using insulin pumps and multiple daily injection therapy (MDI) during the Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Women With Type 1 Diabetes in Pregnancy Trial (CONCEPTT).Research Design and Methods: This was a prespecified analysis of CONCEPTT involving 248 pregnant women from 31 centers. Randomization was stratified for pump versus MDI and HbA1c. The primary outcome was change in HbA1c from randomization to 34 weeks' gestation. Key secondary outcomes were continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) measures, maternal-infant health, and patient-reported outcomes.Results: At baseline, pump users were more often in stable relationships (P = 0.003), more likely to take preconception vitamins (P = 0.03), and less likely to smoke (P = 0.02). Pump and MDI users had comparable first-trimester glycemia: HbA1c 6.84 ± 0.71 vs. 6.95 ± 0.58% (51 ± 7.8 vs. 52 ± 6.3 mmol/mol) (P = 0.31) and CGM time in target (51 ± 14 vs. 50 ± 13%) (P = 0.40). At 34 weeks, MDI users had a greater decrease in HbA1c (-0.55 ± 0.59 vs. -0.32 ± 0.65%, P = 0.001). At 24 and 34 weeks, MDI users were more likely to achieve target HbA1c (P = 0.009 and P = 0.001, respectively). Pump users had more hypertensive disorders (P = 0.011), mainly driven by increased gestational hypertension (14.4 vs. 5.2%; P = 0.025), and more neonatal hypoglycemia (31.8 vs. 19.1%, P = 0.05) and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions >24 h (44.5 vs. 29.6%; P = 0.02). Pump users had a larger reduction in hypoglycemia-related anxiety (P = 0.05) but greater decline in health/well-being (P = 0.02).Conclusions: In CONCEPTT, MDI users were more likely to have better glycemic outcomes and less likely to have gestational hypertension, neonatal hypoglycemia, and NICU admissions than pump users. These data suggest that implementation of insulin pump therapy is potentially suboptimal during pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes is a frequent condition in pregnancy and achieving adequate glycemic control is of paramount importance. Insulin treatment is the gold standard, oral agents are more attractive, but their safety and efficiency should be a prerequisite for their use. We have more information regarding treatment of women with gestational diabetes mellitus where glyburide can induce a picture of fetal hyperinsulinism (higher birthweight and more neonatal hypoglycemia) whereas metformin requires supplemental insulin in a larger proportion of women but achieves satisfactory perinatal outcomes with the exception of preterm birth. Information in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is much more limited but also favors metformin. Combinations provide additional possibilities. However, as to long-term outcomes, we have no information on the impact of exposure to glyburide and it is still unclear if in utero exposure to metformin will have any effect on the offspring and the direction of this effect. Women prefer oral agents, indicating the need of additional studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Medical nutrition therapy is a mainstay of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) treatment. However, data are limited regarding the optimal diet for achieving euglycemia and improved perinatal outcomes. This study aims to investigate whether modified dietary interventions are associated with improved glycemia and/or improved birth weight outcomes in women with GDM when compared with control dietary interventions.Research Design and Methods: Data from published randomized controlled trials that reported on dietary components, maternal glycemia, and birth weight were gathered from 12 databases. Data were extracted in duplicate using prespecified forms.Results: From 2,269 records screened, 18 randomized controlled trials involving 1,151 women were included. Pooled analysis demonstrated that for modified dietary interventions when compared with control subjects, there was a larger decrease in fasting and postprandial glucose (-4.07 mg/dL [95% CI -7.58, -0.57]; P = 0.02 and -7.78 mg/dL [95% CI -12.27, -3.29]; P = 0.0007, respectively) and a lower need for medication treatment (relative risk 0.65 [95% CI 0.47, 0.88]; P = 0.006). For neonatal outcomes, analysis of 16 randomized controlled trials including 841 participants showed that modified dietary interventions were associated with lower infant birth weight (-170.62 g [95% CI -333.64, -7.60]; P = 0.04) and less macrosomia (relative risk 0.49 [95% CI 0.27, 0.88]; P = 0.02). The quality of evidence for these outcomes was low to very low. Baseline differences between groups in postprandial glucose may have influenced glucose-related outcomes. As well, relatively small numbers of study participants limit between-diet comparison.Conclusions: Modified dietary interventions favorably influenced outcomes related to maternal glycemia and birth weight. This indicates that there is room for improvement in usual dietary advice for women with GDM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Process evaluation is an essential part of designing and assessing complex interventions. The vitamin D and lifestyle intervention study (DALI) study is testing different strategies to prevent development of gestational diabetes mellitus among European obese pregnant women with a body mass index ≥29 kg/m2. The intervention includes guidance on physical activity and/or healthy eating by a lifestyle coach trained in motivational interviewing (MI). The aim of this study was to assess the process elements: reach, dose delivered, fidelity and satisfaction and to investigate whether these process elements were associated with changes in gestational weight gain (GWG).Methods: Data on reach, dose delivered, fidelity, and satisfaction among 144 participants were collected. Weekly recruitment reports, notes from meetings, coach logs and evaluation questionnaires (n = 110) were consulted. Fidelity of eight (out of twelve) lifestyle coach practitioners was assessed by analysing audio recorded counselling sessions using the MI treatment integrity scale. Furthermore, associations between process elements and GWG were assessed with linear regression analyses.Results: A total of 20% of the possible study population (reach) was included in this analysis. On average 4.0 (of the intended 5) face-to-face sessions were delivered. Mean MI fidelity almost reached 'expert opinion' threshold for the global scores, but was below 'beginning proficiency' for the behavioural counts. High variability in quality of MI between practitioners was identified. Participants were highly satisfied with the intervention, the lifestyle coach and the intervention materials. No significant associations were found between process elements and GWG.Conclusion: Overall, the intervention was well delivered and received by the study population, but did not comply with all the principles of MI. Ensuring audio recording of lifestyle sessions throughout the study would facilitate provision of individualized feedback to improve MI skills. A larger sample size is needed to confirm the lack of association between process elements and GWG.Trial Registration: ISRCTN registry: ISRCTN70595832 ; Registered 12 December 2011. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To assess the association between maternal diabetes characteristics and sex ratio at birth (SRB) in women with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Methods: We performed a case-control study. The study subjects were infants born alive to women with type 1 diabetes and singleton pregnancies. Cases and controls were defined as male and female newborns, respectively. SRB was analysed according to diabetes-related characteristics adjusting in a logistic regression analysis for maternal characteristics known to affect SRB in the general population. Results: The observed SRB (238 males/468 live births = 0.509) did not differ from the expected. In the logistic regression analysis, SRB was significantly associated with three diabetes characteristics: (1) diabetes duration, with odds ratios (ORs) for a live male newborn = 1.22 (95 % confidence interval (CI), 0.66-2.24 for ≤5 years, OR 2.79 (95 % CI 1.36-5.74) for >20 years; (2) mean first-trimester glycated haemoglobin, with OR 1.98 (95 % CI 1.09-3.62) for ≤6.7 % (50 mmol/mol) and OR 2.61 (95 % CI 1.16-5.85) for >8.2 % (66 mmol/mol) and (3) mean first-trimester insulin dose, with OR 0.70 (95 % CI 0.36-1.38) for ≤0.5 IU/kg/day and OR 0.18 (95 % CI 0.05-0.59) for >1.0 IU/kg/day. Conclusions: We conclude that SRB in this cohort is independently associated with three diabetes characteristics. These associations are to be confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rising rates of diabetes in pregnancy have led to an escalation in research in this area. As in any area of clinical research, definitions of outcomes vary from study to study, making it difficult to compare research findings and draw conclusions. Our aim was to compile and create a repository of definitions, which could then be used universally. A systematic review of the literature was performed on published and ongoing randomized controlled trials in the area of diabetes in pregnancy between 01 Jan 2000 and 01 Jun 2012. Other sources included the World Health Organization and Academic Society Statements. The advice of experts was sought when appropriate definitions were lacking. Among the published randomized controlled trials on diabetes and pregnancy, 171 abstracts were retrieved, 64 full texts were reviewed and 53 were included. Among the ongoing randomized controlled trials published in ClinicalTrials.gov, 90 protocols were retrieved and 25 were finally included. The definitions from these were assembled and the final maternal definitions and foetal definitions were agreed upon by consensus. It is our hope that the definitions we have provided (i) will be widely used in the reporting of future studies in the area of diabetes in pregnancy, that they will (ii) facilitate future systematic reviews and formal meta analyses and (iii) ultimately improve outcomes for mothers and babies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE Ways to prevent gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) remain unproven. We compared the impact of three lifestyle interventions (healthy eating [HE], physical activity [PA], and both HE and PA [HE+PA]) on GDM risk in a pilot multicenter randomized trial. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Pregnant women at risk for GDM (BMI ≥29 kg/m²) from nine European countries were invited to undertake a 75-g oral glucose tolerance test before 20 weeks' gestation. Those without GDM were randomized to HE, PA, or HE+PA. Women received five face-to-face and four optional telephone coaching sessions, based on the principles of motivational interviewing. A gestational weight gain (GWG) <5 kg was targeted. Coaches received standardized training and an intervention toolkit. Primary outcome measures were GWG, fasting glucose, and insulin sensitivity (HOMA) at 35-37 weeks. RESULTS Among the 150 trial participants, 32% developed GDM by 35-37 weeks and 20% achieved GWG <5 kg. HE women had less GWG (-2.6 kg [95% CI -4.9, -0.2]; P = 0.03) and lower fasting glucose (-0.3mmol/L [-0.4,-0.1]; P = 0.01) than those in the PA group at 24-28 weeks. HOMA was comparable. No significant differences between HE+PA and the other groups were observed. CONCLUSIONS An antenatal HE intervention is associated with less GWG and lower fasting glucose comparedwith PA alone. These findings require a larger trial for confirmation but support the use of early HE interventions in obese pregnant women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The purpose of this study was to examine the association between mental health status (i.e. depressed mood and pregnancy-related worries) and objectively measured physical activity levels in obese pregnant women from seven European countries. Methods: Baseline data from the vitamin D and lifestyle intervention for the prevention of gestational diabetes mellitus (DALI) study were used. Time spent in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary behaviour was measured with accelerometers. Depressed mood was measured with the WHO well-being index (WHO-5) and pregnancy-related worries with the Cambridge Worry Scale (CWS). In addition, socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, and perceptions and attitude regarding weight management and physical activity were measured. Linear regression analyses were performed to assess the association of mental health status with MVPA and sedentary behaviour. Results: A total of 98 obese pregnant women from Austria, Belgium, Ireland, Italy, Poland, Spain and the Netherlands were included. Women had a mean age of 31.6 ± 5.8 years, a pre-pregnancy BMI of 34.1 ± 4.3 kg/m2, and were on average 15.4 ± 2.8 weeks pregnant. WHO-5 scores indicative of depressed mood (<50) were reported by 27.1 % of the women and most frequently endorsed pregnancy-related worries pertained to own and the baby's health. Women with good well-being spent 85 % more time in MVPA compared to women with a depressed mood (P = 0.03). No differences in MVPA levels were found for women with no, some, or many pregnancy worries. Depressed mood and pregnancy-related worries were not associated with sedentary behaviour. Conclusions: These findings suggest that in pregnant women who are obese, a depressed mood, but not pregnancy-related worries, may be associated with less physical activity. The combined risk of poor mental health and low physical activity levels makes women vulnerable for pregnancy complications. Whether a depressed mood may be a barrier for improving physical activity warrants further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials assessing ultrasound-guided versus conventional management in women with a broad severity-spectrum of gestational diabetes mellitus. Design Systematic review and meta-analysis of trials published until August 2012. Setting PubMed and Web of Science databases. Study selection and methods Eighteen studies were reviewed in full text. Eligibility criteria were (i) randomized controlled trials comparing metabolic management in women with gestational diabetes mellitus and ultrasound-based vs. the conventional management to assess fetal growth, (ii) representative of the whole spectrum of hyperglycemia and fetal growth, (iii) data on perinatal outcomes. Review Manager 5.0 was used to summarize the results. Results Two studies fulfilled inclusion criteria. The ultrasound-guided group had a lower rate of large-for-gestational age newborns (relative risk 0.58, 95% confidence interval 0.34-0.99), macrosomia (relative risk 0.32, 95% confidence interval 0.11-0.95) and abnormal birthweight (small/large-for-gestational age, relative risk 0.64, 95% confidence interval 0.45-0.93) and a higher rate of insulin treatment (relative risk 1.58, 95% confidence interval 1.14-2.20). The number of women with gestational diabetes with a need to treat to prevent an additional newborn with abnormal birthweight was 10. Conclusions In women with a broad severity-spectrum of gestational diabetes mellitus, ultrasound-guided management improves birthweight distribution, but increases the need for insulin treatment. More research is needed in this area because results are derived from a limited number of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Male sex is a well-known risk factor for unfavorable perinatal outcomes. Fetal sex has been considered only occasionally in diabetic pregnancy. Objective: Our aim was to evaluate perinatal outcomes in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) according to fetal sex. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of all singleton pregnancies of women with GDM progressing to >22 weeks and delivering in our center between 1981 and 2007. Evaluated maternal characteristics included anthropometrics, obstetric history, GDM diagnosis characteristics (ie, gestational age, blood glucose values), HbA1c (after diagnosis and in the third trimester). Outcomes variables were cesarean section (CS), gestational hypertension, preterm birth, abnormal Apgar, large and small for gestational age newborns, obstetric trauma, major and minor malformations, neonatal hypoglycemia, jaundice, respiratory distress, polycythemia, hypocalcemia, perinatal mortality, and a composite outcome. We used a descriptive and multiple logistic regression analysis (backwards method). Results: A total of 2299 pregnancies were included (1125 female and 1174 male infants). Maternal characteristics were essentially similar in male and female newborns. For outcomes, unadjusted figures were higher in pregnancies of male newborns in 14 of 16 perinatal outcomes, but significance was only reached for CS. The logistic regression analyses revealed male sex as an independent predictor of CS (odds ratio = 1.48; 95% CI, 1.15−1.90) and neonatal hypoglycemia (odds ratio = 2.13; 95% CI, 1.02−4.43). Conclusions: In this group of women with GDM, perinatal outcomes in pregnancies of male newborns differ in only 2 of 16 evaluated variables: an increased frequency of CS and neonatal hypoglycemia. Male newborns of mothers with GDM could benefit from increased awareness of neonatal hypoglycemia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Aim: Metabolic monitoring of women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) usually consists of measuring fasting ketonuria and postprandial capillary blood glucose (CBG) after main meals.We aimed to evaluate how this monitoring system captures the metabolic picture as compared to a scheme with a greater number of time points. Methods: Thirty-five women with GDM were recommended to follow a fractionated diet and trained in CBG and ketonuria monitoring. They were asked to monitor ketonuria before a main meal, and to monitor CBG at fasting and 1 h postprandial after any two of the six daily meals. Participants were requested to monitor different meals each day. The goal for 1 h postprandial CBG was <135 mg/dL (7.5 mmol/L). Ketonuria was defined as significant before a certain meal when 30% of measurements at that point were positive. Similarly, postprandial CBG was defined as abnormal after a meal when 30% measurements exceeded the goal. Results: Ketonuria was significant in 22.5% of the time points and 41.2% of women had significant ketonuria at one or more time points; 61% of the time points and 35.7% of the women with significant ketonuria would have been undetected with monitoring restricted to breakfast. Postprandial CBG was abnormal in 17.6% of meals and 57% of women had abnormal postprandial CBG at one or more meals; 37.8% of points and 15% of women with abnormal postprandial CBG would have been undetected with monitoring restricted to main meals.Conclusion: A substantial proportion of metabolic abnormalities in GDM women are not detected with a monitoring program that measures only fasting ketonuria and postprandial CBG after main meals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three and a half decades after the clinical description of “Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young” (MODY), and despite its low prevalence, important knowledge has been gathered concerning its genetic basis, molecular pathways, clinical phenotypes and pharmacogenetic issues. This knowledge has proved to be important not only for the attention of subjects carrying a mutation but also for the insight provided in Type 2 diabetes mellitus. In recent years, a shift from the term “MODY” to “monogenic diabetes” has taken place, the latter term being a better and more comprehensive descriptor. We stick to the “old” term because information on other types of monogenic diabetes and pregnancy is scarce. In this review we perform an overview of the entity, the prevalence rates reported in women with gestational diabetes mellitus and the specific impact of each type on pregnancy outcome. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article focuses on the determination of obese women having marked insulin resistance in early pregnancy through the gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) recommendations of the 2013 World Health Organization and the International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups (IADPSG). Topics discussed include an overview of GDM, its diagnosis, its prevalence, and its treatment.

The article focuses on diabetes-related autoantibodies (DRA) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). It says that autoantibodies against pancreatic β-cell antigens precede the clinical onset of type 1 diabetes. It accounts the impairment of the acute insulin response to intravenous glucose in women with GDM with positivity for islet cell autoantibodies (ICA) and normal glucose tolerance after delivery.

Background. The aim of the study was to analyze the association between the period of diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and maternal and neonatal outcome. Methods. In this retrospective study, 1708 offspring (1571 singleton, 119 twins, and 18 triplets) born to women with GDM who attended the Diabetic and Pregnancy Clinic were included. Pregnancies were divided into three groups according to the gestational age at GDM diagnosis. The association of the period of diagnosis with maternal and fetal outcome was assessed adjusting for potentially confounding variables (logistic regression analysis). Results. The period of diagnosis was a predictor in two out of three maternal outcomes (pregnancy-induced hypertension and insulin treatment) and in four out of 12 fetal outcomes (preterm birth, 5-min Apgar <7, perinatal mortality, and hyperbilirubinemia). Whereas pregnancy-induced hypertension was higher in women diagnosed with GDM in the second period, the other outcomes displayed higher occurrences with earlier diagnosis. Conclusions. Diagnosis of GDM earlier in pregnancy is a predictor of adverse maternal and neonatal outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the care of women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), more attention is put on glycemic control than in factors such as gestational weight gain (GWG). We aimed to evaluate the rate of inadequate GWG in women with GDM, its clinical predictors and the association with pregnancy outcomes. Methods: Cohort retrospective analysis. Outcome variables: GWG according to Institute of Medicine 2009 and 18 pregnancy outcomes. Clinical characteristics were considered both as GWG predictors and as covariates in outcome prediction. Statistics: descriptive, multinomial and logistic regression. Results: We assessed 2842 women diagnosed with GDM in the 1985–2011 period. GWG was insufficient (iGWG) in 50.3%, adequate in 31.6% and excessive (eGWG) in 18.1%; length of follow-up for GDM was positively associated with iGWG. Overall pregnancy outcomes were satisfactory. GWG was associated with pregnancy-induced hypertension, preeclampsia, cesarean delivery and birthweight-related outcomes. Essentially, the direction of the association was towards a higher risk with eGWG and lower risk with iGWG (i.e., with Cesarean delivery and excessive growth). Conclusions: In this cohort of women with GDM, inadequate GWG was very common at the expense of iGWG. The associations with pregnancy outcomes were mainly towards a higher risk with eGWG and lower risk with iGWG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A better understanding of what drives behaviour change in obese pregnant overweight women is needed to improve the effectiveness of lifestyle interventions in this group at risk for gestational diabetes (GDM). Therefore, we assessed which factors mediated behaviour change in the Vitamin D and Lifestyle Intervention for GDM Prevention (DALI) Lifestyle Study. A total of 436 women, with pre-pregnancy body mass index ≥29 kg/m2, ≤19 + 6 weeks of gestation and without GDM, were randomised for counselling based on motivational interviewing (MI) on healthy eating and physical activity, healthy eating alone, physical activity alone, or to a usual care group. Lifestyle was measured at baseline, and at 24–28 and 35–37 weeks of gestation. Outcome expectancy, risk perception, task self-efficacy and social support were measured at those same time points and considered as possible mediators of intervention effects on lifestyle. All three interventions resulted in increased positive outcome expectancy for GDM reduction, perceived risk to the baby and increased task self-efficacy. The latter mediated intervention effects on physical activity and reduced sugared drink consumption. In conclusion, our MI intervention was successful in increasing task self-efficacy, which was related to improved health behaviours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focuses on a study which examined the effect of postprandial exercise on women with gestational diabetes. Details on the subjects; Discussion on the results; Significance.

Comments on the study conducted by Kousta, et al, on the performance of the 1997 diagnostic criteria for diabetes revised by the American Diabetes Association (ADA). Comparison of the 1997 ADA criteria with the 1998 criteria of the World Health Organization in women with prior gestational diabetes (GD); Risk of women with GD to have abnormal glucose homeostasis.

The article discusses a study which showed the inferiority of glibenclamide to both insulin and metformin as treatment for women with gestational diabetes. Topics covered include the selection criteria for the articles that were analyzed, the risks and benefits of both oral agents and insulin for treating gestational diabetes, and the better performance generated by metformin compared to insulin. The differences in birth weight after treatment of maternal gestational diabetes are also cited.

The article offers information on the Fifth Joseph Hoet Research Award (JHRA), which will be presented at the annual meeting of the Diabetic Pregnancy Study Group (DPSG) in Dubrovnik, Croatia on October 2-5, 2008. This award recognizes research excellence in the field of diabetes and pregnancy. Aside from a commemorative plaque and a diploma-certificate, the awardee will receive a monetary award from Novo Nordisk Pharma. Instructions for the submission of applications are given.

Presents a study which assessed the influence of an ordinary delay in sample processing on gestational diabetes screening results. Methodology; Results; Conclusions.

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases convened a workshop on research gaps in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) with a focus on 1) early pregnancy diagnosis and treatment and 2) pharmacologic treatment strategies. This article summarizes the proceedings of the workshop. In early pregnancy, the appropriate diagnostic criteria for the diagnosis of GDM remain poorly defined, and an effect of early diagnosis and treatment on the risk of adverse outcomes has not been demonstrated. Despite many small randomized controlled trials of glucose-lowering medication treatment in GDM, our understanding of medication management of GDM is incomplete as evidenced by discrepancies among professional society treatment guidelines. The comparative effectiveness of insulin, metformin, and glyburide remains uncertain, particularly with respect to long-term outcomes. Additional topics in need of further research identified by workshop participants included phenotypic heterogeneity in GDM and novel and individualized treatment approaches. Further research on these topics is likely to improve our understanding of the pathophysiology and treatment of GDM to improve both short- and long-term outcomes for mothers and their children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. We explored beliefs, perceived barriers, and preferences regarding lifestyle changes among overweight European pregnant women to help inform the development of future lifestyle interventions in the prevention of gestational diabetes mellitus. Methods. An explorative mixed methods, two-staged study was conducted to gather information from pregnant European women (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2). In three European countries 21 interviews were conducted, followed by 71 questionnaires in six other European countries. Content analysis and descriptive and chi-square statistics were applied (p<0.05). Results. Women preferred to obtain detailed information about their personal risk. The health of their baby was a major motivating factor. Perceived barriers for physical activity included pregnancy-specific issues such as tiredness and experiencing physical complaints. Insufficient time was a barrier more frequently reported by women with children. Abstaining from snacking was identified as a challenge for the majority of women, especially for those without children. Women preferred to obtain support from their partner, as well as health professionals and valued flexible lifestyle programs. Conclusions. Healthcare professionals need to inform overweight pregnant women about their personal risk, discuss lifestyle modification, and assist in weight management. Lifestyle programs should be tailored to the individual, taking into account barriers experienced by overweight first-time mothers and multipara women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objectives: To study the predictors of abnormal fetal growth in diabetic pregnancy, analyzing the role of fetal sex. Study design: Observational retrospective study was carried out in a University hospital. We studied 2833 newborns of diabetic mothers who attended the Diabetes and Pregnancy Clinic and delivered in the center between 1/1/1982 and 31/12/2006 (2370 born to women with gestational diabetes mellitus, 391 to women with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM), and 72 to women with type 2 DM). Logistic regression analyses were performed with a backward method to predict large for gestational age (LGA), small for gestational age (SGA) and macrosomic newborns using relevant variables and their interaction with fetal sex. We have used as potential predictors of abnormal birth weight: maternal prepregnancy age, weight, height and body mass index, prior pregnancy, prior macrosomia, smoking habit, weight increase during pregnancy, hypertension, gestational age at delivery, twin pregnancy, fetal sex, diabetes type, third trimester HbA1c and interaction of fetal sex with all these variables. Results: Variables predictive of LGA, SGA and macrosomia were as formerly described. Moreover, some predictors of abnormal growth displayed an interaction with fetal sex. In LGA prediction, male sex displayed a positive interaction with delivery week, prior gestation, diabetes type and twin pregnancy and a negative one with weight increase. In SGA prediction, male sex displayed a positive interaction with delivery week and diabetes type. In macrosomia prediction, male sex displayed a negative interaction with weight increase. Conclusions: In this cohort of diabetic pregnancies, some predictors of abnormal birth weight display interaction with fetal sex. In general, associations were more favorable to female fetuses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To investigate the performance of early pregnancy HbA1c for predicting gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and adverse pregnancy outcomes in obese women.Methods: Post hoc analysis using data from the Vitamin D And Lifestyle Intervention for GDM prevention trials conducted across 9 European countries (2012-2014). Pregnant women (BMI ≥ 29 kg/m2) underwent a baseline HbA1c and oral glucose tolerance tests at < 20 weeks, 24-28 weeks, and 35-37 weeks. Women with GDM were referred for treatment.Results: Among the 869 women tested, the prevalence of GDM was 25.9% before 20 weeks, with a further 8.6% at 24-28 weeks. The areas under the curves for HbA1c at the two time points were 0.55 (0.50-0.59) and 0.54 (0.47-0.61), respectively. An early HbA1c ≥ 5.7% (39 mmol/mol) (N = 111) showed low sensitivity (18.2%) with 89.1% specificity for GDM before 20 weeks, at 24-28 weeks (sensitivity of 8.0% and specificity of 88.6% after excluding early GDM), and throughout gestation (sensitivity of 15.9% and specificity of 89.4%). The ≥ 5.7% (39 mmol/mol) threshold was significantly associated with concurrent GDM before 20 weeks (adjusted OR (aOR) 2.77(1.39-5.51)) and throughout gestation (aOR 1.72 (1.02-2.89)), but not adverse pregnancy outcomes.Conclusions: Early pregnancy HbA1c is of limited use for predicting either GDM or adverse outcomes in overweight/obese European women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]