Keywords
Maternal complications
Fetal complications
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Abstract
Objective: To analyze and review the main maternal and fetal complications associated with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Literature review: GDM is a condition characterized by hyperglycemia first diagnosed during pregnancy, affecting up to 25% of pregnant women in Brazil. It is associated with insulin resistance, pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction, and hormonal and inflammatory changes that impair glycemic homeostasis. In the maternal context, GDM increases the risk of complications such as gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, infections, cesarean delivery, and predisposition to type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease in the postpartum period. From the fetal and neonatal perspective, GDM can lead to macrosomia, hypoglycemia, respiratory distress syndrome, congenital malformations, and a higher risk of obesity and metabolic disorders in later life. Final considerations: GDM represents a significant clinical and public health challenge, requiring early screening, strict glycemic control, and multidisciplinary follow-up. Appropriate management can prevent both short- and long-term complications for mother and child.
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