Neonatal consequences of gestational diabetes mellitus: evidence from a prospective observational study

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) alters the intrauterine metabolic environment and is associated with several neonatal complications. Despite standardized screening and management protocols, adverse neonatal outcomes continue to occur in pregnancies complicated by GDM. Objective of the study was to evaluate neonatal outcomes in pregnancies affected by gestational diabetes mellitus and compare them with outcomes in normoglycemic pregnancies. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 200 pregnant women delivering at a tertiary care hospital. Women were categorized into GDM and non-GDM groups based on “Diabetes in Pregnancy Study Group India” (DIPSI) diagnostic criteria. Neonatal outcomes including birth weight, APGAR scores, requirement for resuscitation, and NICU admission were analyzed. Results: Gestational diabetes was present in 17% of the study population. Neonates born to mothers with GDM had significantly higher mean birth weight than those born to non-GDM mothers (p<0.001). The need for resuscitation at birth was significantly greater in the GDM group. NICU admissions were more frequent among neonates of GDM mothers, though the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusions: Pregnancies complicated by GDM are associated with an increased risk of adverse neonatal outcomes, particularly macrosomia and immediate neonatal compromise. Focused intrapartum monitoring and preparedness for neonatal intervention are essential to reduce perinatal morbidity.