Dear Colleagues,

Gestational diabetes (GDM), or the occurrence of hyperglycemia for the first time in pregnancy, is a common complication of pregnancy and poses a sizeable public health challenge globally. Prevalence rates across the globe vary due to differences in population characteristics as well as different screening and diagnostic methodologies. Nevertheless, GDM is associated with complications such as hypertensive disorders, preterm birth and neonatal metabolic and respiratory issues. Women with a history of GDM have an added risk of 20–50% of developing Type 2 Diabetes. Given that the cornerstone of GDM management is glycemic control, there is still widespread variation and no universal consensus on medical optimization of blood glucose. Furthermore, there is limited evidence available to guide clinical management on timing of birth and postpartum screening for type 2 diabetes. There is an urgent need for more research into the antenatal, intrapartum and postpartum management of GDM which will safely guide clinical practice in order to improve maternal and neonatal short and long-term outcomes.

Dr. Natasha Singh
Guest Editor