Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Despite recent attempts at building consensus, an internationally consistent definition of gestational diabetes mellitus remains elusive. Within and between countries there is disagreement between obstetric, medical and endocrine groups as to the diagnosis and management of GDM. The current article aims to discuss the background to the controversy of GDM diagnosis and to address issues related to detection and treatment of GDM in low, middle and high resource settings. The criteria recommended by IADPSG, ADA and WHO are endorsed. We also wish to put into perspective the importance of GDM, both during and after pregnancy, in terms of its relationship to overall women’s health.