Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
Gestational diabetes mellitus
Also written as: GDM — Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Glucose intolerance that develops or is first diagnosed during pregnancy.
Full Definition
A form of diabetes that occurs in 2-10% of pregnancies, characterized by insulin resistance and glucose intolerance that develops during the second or third trimester. GDM increases risks of macrosomia, birth trauma, neonatal hypoglycemia, and future maternal type 2 diabetes. Management includes dietary modification, blood glucose monitoring, and potentially insulin therapy. The condition typically resolves after delivery but requires postpartum glucose screening.
Usage
Usage note: Abbreviate as GDM in clinical documentation; distinguish from pre-existing diabetes.
In Context
- "The patient was diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus at 28 weeks gestation following abnormal glucose screening." — Prenatal care note
- "Management of gestational diabetes mellitus included dietary counseling and home glucose monitoring." — Care plan documentation
Also known as
GDM
Don't confuse with
pre-gestational diabetes
type 1 diabetes in pregnancy