A Review of Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring Practices Among Pregnant People with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

In the context of diabetes, the term "gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM)” refers to glucose intolerance of varied degrees that is identified for the first time during pregnancy. Glucose levels in the blood return to normal quite quickly following the delivery of the baby. On the other hand, the women have a lifelong chance of developing overt diabetes during the next five years. Medical nutrition therapy, physical activity, careful weight management, and “Self-Monitoring Of Blood Glucose Levels (SMBG)” are the main treatment pillars for GDM. Of all the management components, SMBG is the one that gets the least amount of attention, particularly among pregnant women who have GDM. Empowering patients and providing them with accurate evidence concerning SMBG may be useful in managing GDM and achieving better outcomes for both the mother and the unborn child. In general, the application of SMBG in developing nations like India falls short of expectations as a practise.