A Review of Research Progress on Glycemic Variability and Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with many adverse obstetric outcomes and neonatal outcomes, including preeclampsia, Cesarean section, and macrosomia. Active screening and early diabetes control can reduce the occurrence of adverse outcomes. Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) only reflects average blood glucose levels, but not glycemic variability (GV). Studies have shown that GV can cause a series of adverse reactions, and good control of GV can reduce the incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes in patients with GDM. In order to provide clinicians with a better basis for diagnosis and treatment, this study reviewed the measurement, evaluation, and control of GV, the importance of GV for patients with GDM, and correlations between GV and maternal and neonatal outcomes.