Macrosomia predictors and pregnancy outcomes in Gestational Diabetes patients: An observational study from Ha’il, Saudi Arabia

Objectives: To determine the prevalence, risk factors for macrosomia and pregnancy outcome in women with gestational diabetes (GDM).

Methods: In this prospective observational study, we included the data of 161 pregnant females diagnosed with GDM. The study was conducted from December 1st, 2020 to June 30, 2021, at the Maternity and Children Hospital (MCH) of Hail, Saudi Arabia. The data regarding risk factors of macrosomia was obtained from each patient. The patients were followed till the delivery of the baby. The data regarding the prevalence of fetal macrosomia and its associated outcomes was noted.

Results: The prevalence of fetal macrosomia was 19.8%. Maternal obesity (OR 4.87), poorly controlled diabetes (OR 3.3), previous history of good-sized baby (OR 2.30), previous history of congenital abnormalities (OR 7.2) were the significant risk factors of fetal macrosomia. The prevalence of maternal and fetal complications was high among pregnancies complicated by fetal macrosomia. The prevalence of fetal macrosomia and other fetal complications was high in poorly controlled GDM patients in comparison to optimal control GDM patients.

Conclusion: Fetal macrosomia is a common complication among GDM patients. Maternal obesity and poorly controlled diabetes are the common modifiable maternal factors contributing to macrosomia.