Long-term prognosis of women with abnormal glucose tolerance in pregnancy

Abstract

A 6-year-follow-up of 193 Chinese women with abnormal glucose tolerance (75 g OGTT, WHO criteria) during pregnancy was compared with a control group of 58 women with normal glucose tolerance during pregnancy in the same period. In the study group, 18 (9.3%) had diabetes and 38 (19.7%) had impaired glucose tolerance i.e. 56 (29.0%) had abnormal glucose tolerance compared with 3 (5.2%), 5 (8.6%) and 8 (13.8%) respectively in the control group. The incidence of abnormal glucose tolerance was significantly higher in the study group. In the study group, the serum glucose (fasting 6 mmol/L or above, 2 hours 11.0 mmol/L or above) during pregnancy and at 6 weeks postpartum were predictive of the development of diabetes. Age, obesity, history of diabetes in first degree relatives, previous baby over 4 kg, body mass index at follow-up, recurrent abnormal glucose tolerance during pregnancy and use of oral contraceptives within 6 months of follow-up were not.