Doctors’ Perception on the Management of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Globally, 90% of pregnant women are diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM). In India, the reported prevalence rate is between 4.6%–14% in urban areas and 1.7%–13.2% in rural areas. Undiagnosed or inadequately managed GDM can lead to significant maternal and fetal complications.

In this survey, we are trying to find out the doctors’ perception on the management of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus.

Objective: Doctor’s perception on the management of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

A total of 433 doctors participated in the survey, including 39% others, 18% general practitioners, 18% diabetologist, 14% dentist, 4% obstetrician & gynaecologist, 3% ayurvedic doctors, 2% pediatricians and 2% anesthesiologists.

• Around 42% of the doctors responded that the women and the family members are moderately aware of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus.
• Around 47% of the doctors responded that Gestational Diabetes Mellitus is common among women belonging to the age group of 26 – 35 years.
• Most of the doctors, 47% responded that the best time to counsel and educate the women about Gestational Diabetes Mellitus is when planning a child.
• The majority of the doctors, 68% responded that extreme dry mouth, constant thirst and polyuria are the most common warning signs of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus.
• Around 48% of doctors responded that lack of awareness is the major challenge faced while managing Gestational Diabetes Mellitus.
• Around 49% of doctors responded that a healthy lifestyle during pre and post pregnancy can help manage Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and its complications.
• The majority of the doctors, 43% responded that Insulin is the most suitable option for pregnant women to control Gestational Diabetes Mellitus.
• Around 35% of doctors responded that fast-acting insulin is the safest medication for the mother and the baby to treat Gestational Diabetes Mellitus. Most of the doctors, 35% responded that preterm birth is the most common complication associated with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus.
• Around 50% of the doctors responded that the safety of the medications is the most common worry of women and their family members when diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus.

Our survey revealed that the majority of doctors find that women and their family members are moderately aware of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and it is most common among women belonging to the age group of 26 – 35 years. Around 48% of doctor’s state that lack of awareness is the major challenge in management of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and 47% of doctors responded that the best time to counsel women about Gestational Diabetes Mellitus is when planning for a child. 68% of doctors responded that dry mouth, constant thirst and polyuria are the most common warning signs observed during Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and 35% of doctors estimated that preterm birth is the most common complication. Around 50% of doctors believe that the safety of medication is the most common worry of women and 35% of doctors responded that fast-acting insulin is the safest medication. To minimize Gestational Diabetes Mellitus associated complications, MoHFW has released national guidelines for universal screening and management of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus.

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