Blood Glucose Levels in Neonates of Diabetic Mother: A Prospective Observational Study

Background: Diabetes during pregnancy is included in high-risk pregnancy condition; nevertheless, protocols regarding the care of these neonates of diabetic mother are unestablished. Objectives: To evaluate the instant complications in neonate of diabetic mother especially hypoglycemia and to assess the association between cord blood glucose and blood glucose levels in the neonates of diabetic mother. Methods: A prospective observational study was done in LNCT Medical College Indore, involving 39 consecutive live born in neonates of diabetic mothers. An antenatal document was the source of maternal data. Neonates was subjected to glucose estimation at preordained intervals and also screened for other morbidity sequence. Results: The commonest complications were hypoglycemia and jaundice both occurring in 49% and 27% respectively. Hypoglycemia was usually asymptomatic, occurred within first 3hrs of life and responded to oral feeds. Neonatal glucose levels correlated with cord blood glucose. (r=0.511; p<0.001). Congenital malformations detected in 21% of babies in which cardiac defects were most common. Interpretation and conclusion: Neonates of diabetic mother are high risk babies. They require close observation and checking of sugar levels but it may be limited to initial 3 hrs of life. Cord blood glucose estimation may be advised to forecast and prevent hypoglycemia.