Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy when the body can't make enough insulin to meet increased needs. It affects about 6-9% of pregnancies in the United States. Most cases are managed with diet, exercise, and blood sugar monitoring, though some require insulin or metformin to protect mother and baby.
What's actually going on in research
Trials are testing ways to prevent gestational diabetes in high-risk pregnancies, comparing metformin to insulin for treatment, studying the long-term metabolic effects on mothers and children, and evaluating continuous glucose monitors as alternatives to finger-stick testing. Researchers are also investigating GLP-1 agonists for use during pregnancy, though current data remains limited.
Prevention strategies
Studies are testing whether metformin, lifestyle programs, or supplements like myo-inositol can prevent gestational diabetes in women with prior history or obesity. Early intervention might reduce the need for medication later in pregnancy.
Continuous glucose monitoring
Wearable glucose sensors may replace finger-stick testing for some pregnant women with gestational diabetes. Trials are comparing whether this technology improves blood sugar control and pregnancy outcomes.
Postpartum screening
New studies focus on improving diabetes screening after delivery, since many women with gestational diabetes develop type 2 diabetes within 10 years. Researchers are testing reminder systems and extended monitoring programs.
What to know before you search
Eligibility typically depends on gestational age, blood sugar levels at diagnosis, BMI, and pregnancy history, with some trials focusing on women at high risk before diabetes develops.
What types of trials are currently open
- Prevention trials — Testing medications, diet programs, or supplements in early pregnancy to prevent gestational diabetes in high-risk women.
- Treatment comparison trials — Comparing metformin, insulin, or glyburide to find the safest and most effective way to control blood sugar during pregnancy.
- Monitoring studies — Testing continuous glucose monitors against traditional finger-stick testing to see which approach leads to better outcomes.
- Postpartum follow-up studies — Following women after delivery to understand diabetes risk and test screening strategies to catch type 2 diabetes early.
- Dietary intervention trials — Testing specific meal plans, carbohydrate targets, or nutritional counseling approaches for managing gestational diabetes.
Recently added Gestational Diabetes trials
Assessment of Quality of Life and Psychological Factors Among Women Diagnosed With Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Summary of Research Protocol Title: Quality of Life and Associated Psychological Factors in Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Background: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a common metabolic disorder of pregnancy characterized by glucose intolerance first recognized during pregnancy. The prevalence of GDM is increasing globally and in India due to the rising burden of obesity and diabetes. While much research has focused on the physiological and obstetric consequences of GDM, its impact on quality of life (QoL) and psychological well-being remains less explored. Women diagnosed with GDM often experience anxiety, stress, fear regarding pregnancy outcomes, and concerns about their own and their baby's health, which may negatively affect their quality of life and adherence to treatment. Research Gap: Existing studies have primarily concentrated on glycemic control and pregnancy outcomes, with limited attention to the psychosocial dimensions of GDM. The relationship between quality of life and psychological factors such as anxiety, depression, stress, and social support among women with GDM has not been adequately studied, particularly in the Indian population. Aim: To assess the quality of life among women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and examine its association with psychological factors. Objectives: To study the quality of life in women with GDM. To compare the quality of life between pregnant women with GDM and those without GDM. To assess associated psychological factors, including anxiety, depression, stress, and perceived social support, among women with GDM. Methodology: A comparative cross-sectional study will be conducted among pregnant women aged 20-40 years attending the OPD and IPD services of Christian Medical College \& Hospital, Ludhiana. Women diagnosed with GDM according to DIPSI criteria (2-hour post 75 g oral glucose load blood sugar ≥140 mg/dL) will constitute the study group, while pregnant women without GDM will serve as controls. Data regarding demographic characteristics, obstetric history, medical history, family history of diabetes, and socioeconomic status will be collected using a structured case record form. Socioeconomic status will be assessed using the Modified Kuppuswamy Scale. Psychological assessment will include: GAD-7 for anxiety symptoms. PHQ-9 for depressive symptoms. MSPSS for perceived social support. Quality of life will be assessed using a validated QoL questionnaire appropriate for women with GDM. Sample Size: Based on previous literature, a minimum sample size of 103 participants in each group (GDM and non-GDM) has been calculated, resulting in a total sample size of 206 participants. Statistical Analysis: Data will be analyzed using SPSS version 26.0. Quantitative variables will be compared using Student's t-test or Mann-Whitney U test, while categorical variables will be analyzed using Chi-square or Fisher's exact test. A p-value \<0.05 will be considered statistically significant. Expected Outcome: The study is expected to provide insights into the quality of life of women with GDM and identify psychological and social factors associated with poorer QoL. The findings may help healthcare providers develop holistic and patient-centered management strategies that address not only glycemic control but also the psychosocial needs of pregnant women with GDM.
Take a daily supplement for gestational diabetes management
The purpose of this clinical study is to investigate the potential effects of myo-inositol supplementation on changes in glycemic control parameters, oxidative stress, inflammatory biomarkers, psychometric markers, and body composition in participants with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The study duration is 3 to 3.5 months, depending on the time of GDM diagnosis. Before the active phase begins, there is a 10-day observation period during which participants' blood glucose levels are monitored using a continuous glucose monitoring device. In the subsequent 12-14-week study phase, participants will receive a supplement based on random group assignment. They will be allocated either to an intervention group (myo-inositol + folic acid) or a control group (folic acid). Both supplements will be taken until delivery. The intervention group supplement contains 4 g myo-inositol and 400 μg folic acid (BIOGENA GmbH, Salzburg) and is to be taken twice daily with water - three capsules per meal. The control group supplement contains only 400 μg folic acid (BIOGENA GmbH, Salzburg) and is also taken twice daily, one capsule per meal. As this is a pilot study, both participants and study personnel will be aware of group assignments. Blood glucose measurements will be repeated mid-study (around the 33rd week of pregnancy) and at the end (37th week of pregnancy) using glucose sensors. To improve the evaluation of glucose measurements, participants will keep dietary logs during these periods. Three study visits are planned, during which the following assessments will be conducted. To determine the primary outcome, "time in range (TIR)" (time spent within the target glucose range), three glucose sensor measurements will be performed. At each visit, blood samples will be taken to analyze glycemic control parameters (hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), fasting glucose, fasting insulin, Homeostasis Model Assessment (HOMA-IR), insulin dosage), oxidative stress markers (total antioxidant capacity, malondialdehyde levels), and inflammatory markers (interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP)). Anthropometric measurements (weight gain, blood pressure, pulse) and body composition (Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis) will also be performed. Additionally, maternal and fetal birth outcomes will be recorded, including cesarean section rates, fetal gestational weight, preterm birth rates, and neonatal hypoglycemia occurrence. To assess participants' well-being and physical activity, questionnaires will be distributed at the beginning and end of the study.
Find Gestational Diabetes trials matched specifically to you
Answer 3 quick questions and we'll show you trials that fit your situation.