Gestational diabetes mellitus is defined as glucose intolerance that first occurs or is first identified during pregnancy. The incidence of this condition varies depending on the population studied and the intensity of the diagnostic search. Gestational diabetes is a recognized risk factor for short- and long-term adverse developments in mother and fetus during pregnancy and their subsequent lifespans. Their pathophysiological base is the strong continuous association between maternal blood glucose concentrations and increasing pre-, peri- and postpartum complication rates. Standardized diagnostic criteria and therapy requirements, on the basis of well-defined criteria of morbidity, and their application would be most desirable considering especially the long-term and lifetime risks for the unborn child.
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