The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its first global guidelines dedicated specifically to the management of diabetes during pregnancy, a major milestone for maternal and newborn health. Diabetes affects one in six pregnancies worldwide, impacting nearly 21 million women every year, and the newly released recommendations aim to transform how this growing health challenge is recognized, treated, and prevented across all health systems.Why Diabetes in Pregnancy Demands Urgent AttentionDiabetes during pregnancy, whether pre-existing or gestational, can be dangerous if not properly managed. Poor blood sugar control significantly raises the risk of pre-eclampsia, stillbirth, obstructed labor, birth injuries, and other complications. The long-term consequences are equally serious: both mothers and babies face a higher lifetime risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other cardiometabolic disorders.The impact is especially severe in low- and middle-income countries, where women often lack access to early screening, essential medicines, glucose testing supplies, and specialized care. These guidelines are intended to close those gaps and ensure that women everywhere receive timely, high-quality support.A Historic Step for Maternal HealthWhile WHO has previously offered guidance on general diabetes management and separate recommendations for pregnancy, this is the first time a specific, unified standard of care has been created for diabetes during pregnancy.“These guidelines are grounded in the realities of women's lives and health needs, and provide clear, evidence-based strategies to deliver high-quality care for every woman, everywhere,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General.The guidelines outline 27 key recommendations, covering the full spectrum of prevention, screening, and treatment.What the New Guidelines RecommendIndividualized Care PlansThe WHO stresses the need for personalized, culturally appropriate guidance on:Diet and nutritionPhysical activityBlood sugar targets based on health status and gestational ageBy tailoring these recommendations, healthcare providers can better support women in managing day-to-day glucose levels throughout pregnancy.Optimal Glucose MonitoringRegular and accurate monitoring is central to safe pregnancy care. The guidelines recommend:Frequent blood glucose testing during clinic visitsHome monitoring using glucometers or continuous glucose sensors where possibleEarly detection of abnormal levels helps prevent complications.Personalized Medication StrategiesTreatment must differ for type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes. When lifestyle changes alone are not enough, the guidelines outline clear medication pathways for insulin and other pharmacologic options.Multidisciplinary Support for High-Risk WomenWomen with pre-existing diabetes should receive coordinated care involving obstetricians, endocrinologists, nutritionists, and diabetes educators to reduce risks throughout pregnancy and childbirth.A Turning Point for Maternal and Newborn HealthLaunched on World Diabetes Day 2025, the guidelines align with this year’s theme, “Diabetes Across Life Stages,” which highlights the need for lifelong diabetes awareness, prevention, and care. The campaign emphasizes that every person, child, adolescent, adult, or older adult, deserves access to integrated services that preserve dignity, health, and long-term well-being.Diabetes remains one of the world’s fastest-growing health threats, currently affecting over 800 million people. It is a leading cause of heart disease, kidney failure, blindness, and limb amputation. Its rise has been steepest in resource-limited regions, where access to screening and essential medicines is often inadequate.A Call for Global ActionBy centering diabetes management across all life stages, WHO’s new guidelines highlight the urgent need for health systems to expand antenatal care, improve access to diagnostic tools, and ensure equitable availability of essential medicines. Strengthening diabetes care during pregnancy is not only lifesaving—it protects future generations and helps build healthier societies worldwide.
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