[Gestational diabetes management: a multidisciplinary treatment algorithm]

Arq Bras Endocrinol Metabol. 2011 Oct;55(7):435-45. doi: 10.1590/s0004-27302011000700002.
[Article in Portuguese]

Abstract

Effective treatment of gestational diabetes is important as an attempt to avoid unfavorable maternal and fetal outcomes. The objective of this paper is to describe the available therapies to optimize gestational diabetes treatment and to suggest a multidisciplinary approach algorithm. Nutrition therapy is the first option for the majority of these pregnancies; light to moderate physical activity is recommended in the absence of obstetrical contraindications. Medical treatment is recommended if glycemic control is not achieved or if excessive fetal growth is detected by ultrasound. Insulin is the standard treatment although oral antidiabetic drugs have recently been considered an effective and safe option. The monitoring of gestational diabetes treatment includes capillary glucose measurements and evaluation of fetal abdominal circumference by ultrasound performed around the 28th gestational week.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms*
  • Diabetes, Gestational / diet therapy
  • Diabetes, Gestational / therapy*
  • Exercise Therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypoglycemic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic / standards*
  • Pregnancy
  • Prenatal Care / standards*

Substances

  • Hypoglycemic Agents