Abstract
The incidence of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes is increasing worldwide. The course can be asymptomatic for several years and it is often diagnosed once the complications arise (e.g., coronary heart disease, stroke, sight, kidneys, or limbs impairment with impending amputations).
Early detection of the disease at the stage of prediabetes is essential for timely prevention, treatment, and delaying complications. Gestational diabetes is a significant risk factor for prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and obesity.
Women with a history of gestational diabetes have a 40-60 % risk of developing prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. Postpartum surveillance leads to early detection and treatment of developing glucose metabolism disorders.
Increased risk is particularly associated with a genetic predisposition, higher maternal age, obesity, PCOS, higher weight gain during pregnancy, and gestational diabetes treated with pharmacotherapy. In response to the increasing incidence of gestational diabetes, postpartum glucose metabolism disorders also increase.
Early initiation of treatment, including dietary measures, regular physical activity, weight reduction, and possibly treatment with metformin, may prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus and associated complications.