DIABETES MELLITUS GESTACIONAL: FATORES DE RISCO, COMPLICAÇÕES E TRATAMENTO

The topic of this article is Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM). This disease is characterized by insufficient insulin action during pregnancy. Hyperglycemia and endocrine disorders resulting from GDM can be harmful to the intrauterine development of the fetus and cause perinatal complications for the mother and baby. It is known that some factors can contribute to the development of GDM, and appropriate treatments can help control blood glucose levels and mitigate the negative effects of the disease. Thus, the general objective of this article was to analyze the aspects involved in the development and control of GDM. The specific objectives were: to identify the main risk factors for the development of GDM; to elucidate the problems that this condition can cause for the mother and baby; and to point out the possibilities for treatment and control of the disease. A literature review on the subject was developed, including scientific articles published in the last five years (2019-2024). Data collection was carried out through PubMED and SciELO. The results showed that hereditary, geographic and socioeconomic factors can influence the onset of GDM, but the main risk factor is the mother's eating habits, obesity and overweight. If left unchecked, GDM can lead to malformations and fetal macrosomia. Complications during delivery and postpartum are also common. In addition, the harm can extend throughout the life of the mother and baby, increasing the chances of developing cardiovascular and endocrine diseases. It was concluded that adequate consumption of carbohydrates and sugars is the main measure to be taken to combat GDM and the damage caused by it. Pharmacological interventions can also enhance treatment, but it is still necessary to expand studies in this area in order to collect clearer scientific evidence.