The World Health Organization has released its first global guidelines for managing diabetes during pregnancy, a condition that affects about one in six pregnancies worldwide. This development gives clinicians a structured, evidence-based roadmap to improve outcomes for both mothers and babies. Poorly controlled diabetes in pregnancy raises the risk of complications such as pre-eclampsia, stillbirth, and birth injuries. It also increases the long-term risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiometabolic disease for both mother and child.
The burden is particularly high in low- and middle-income countries, where access to specialized care is often limited. The guidelines provide 27 key recommendations. They highlight the need for individualized care that includes practical advice on diet, physical activity, and glycemic targets. Regular monitoring of blood glucose during clinic visits and at home…
