Early-Onset Versus Late-Onset Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Maternal, Perinatal and Neonatal Outcomes.
Diabetes Obes MetabJun 9, 2026 (epub)
Guangnan Mei, Yafang Xia, Jin Gan et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the impact of early-onset versus late-onset gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) on maternal, perinatal, and neonatal outcomes across 105,123 pregnancies. The study found that early-onset GDM is associated with significantly higher odds of insulin initiation (OR 2.26), caesarean delivery, preterm birth, large-for-gestational-age infants, and NICU admission.
Key findings
- Early-onset GDM is associated with an OR of 2.26 for insulin initiation.
- The odds of caesarean delivery are increased (OR 1.16) in early-onset GDM.
- Preterm birth risk is elevated with an OR of 1.32 for early-onset GDM.
- NICU admission odds are higher in early-onset GDM (OR 1.24).
Why it matters
Understanding the timing of GDM diagnosis is crucial for identifying patients at higher risk for adverse outcomes. This knowledge can inform clinical decision-making and risk stratification, potentially improving maternal and neonatal care.