Practise of self-monitoring of blood glucose among pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus: A review

Abstract

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is defined as glucose intolerance of varying degree diagnosed first time during the pregnancy. Blood glucose values revert to the normal level soon after the delivery. But the women carry a lifetime risk of getting overt diabetes within 5 years. The management of GDM mainly comprises of medical nutrition therapy, exercise, weight management and Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose (SMBG). Among all the management components, SMBG is the mostly neglected especially among pregnant women with GDM. Patient empowerment and imparting proper information regarding SMBG may be helpful in managing the GDM with better maternal and foetal outcomes. Overall, the practise of SMBG in developing nation like India is not up to the mark.