Infant outcomes following diabetic pregnancies

Diabetes remains a major contributor to both perinatal mortality and morbidity. The complex problems associated with both gestational and pre-gestational (types 1 and 2) diabetes in pregnancy are diverse and are not always managed optimally. Improvement of obstetric and newborn care in these patients has undoubtedly resulted in a significant reduction in neonatal mortality and morbidity over the last few decades. However, there is still significant room for improvement, and progress has been slow in some areas of clinical management. Evidence has now emerged that type 2 diabetes during pregnancy has a similar outcome for infants as type 1 diabetes. This has obvious implications for the future as the incidence of type 2 diabetes is rising worldwide. The key to success remains pre-pregnancy planning and tight glycaemic control throughout pregnancy/labour, as well as the early recognition and intensive care treatment of newborn complications. A thorough knowledge of potential problems in diabetic pregnancies and the infants of diabetic mothers is mandatory for professionals involved in their care.