Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy when hormones make it harder for the body to use insulin. It affects about 6-9% of pregnancies in the United States. Most women manage it with diet changes and blood sugar monitoring, though some need insulin or oral medications. Blood sugar typically returns to normal after delivery, but the condition raises future diabetes risk.
What's actually going on in research
Trials are testing metformin and glyburide as alternatives to insulin, studying whether continuous glucose monitors improve outcomes, and examining long-term health effects for both mothers and children. Researchers are also investigating whether early screening in high-risk women, postpartum interventions, and lifestyle programs can prevent progression to type 2 diabetes.
Continuous glucose monitoring
Trials are testing whether wearing a sensor that tracks blood sugar continuously leads to better control than finger-stick testing. Some studies suggest it reduces high blood sugar episodes and may improve birth outcomes.
Postpartum diabetes prevention
Studies are following women after delivery to test whether lifestyle coaching, metformin, or breastfeeding support can prevent type 2 diabetes. About half of women with gestational diabetes develop type 2 diabetes within ten years.
Oral medications vs insulin
Metformin and glyburide pills are being compared to insulin injections in multiple trials. Some evidence suggests metformin may work as well as insulin for many women, with fewer injections and lower cost.
What to know before you search
Eligibility typically depends on gestational age at diagnosis, blood sugar levels, whether you're already using insulin, and sometimes body mass index or other health conditions.
What types of trials are currently open
- Medication trials — Comparing metformin, glyburide, or newer diabetes pills to insulin for blood sugar control during pregnancy.
- Technology trials — Testing continuous glucose monitors, smartphone apps, and telemedicine to help women track and manage blood sugar.
- Prevention trials — Testing lifestyle programs, medications, or other interventions after delivery to prevent type 2 diabetes.
- Diet and exercise studies — Comparing different meal plans, exercise programs, or combinations to see what works best for blood sugar control.
- Long-term follow-up studies — Tracking mothers and children for years after pregnancy to understand lasting health effects and diabetes risk.
Recently added Gestational Diabetes trials
RIGHTEST iFree 2 CGM in Pregnant Women With Diabetes Study
This study will evaluate the accuracy and safety of the RIGHTEST iFree 2 Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) System in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, or gestational diabetes. The system uses a small sensor placed under the skin to measure glucose levels in the fluid between cells. Approximately 104 women will participate at study sites in Germany and Taiwan. Each participant will wear two sensors, one on each upper arm, for up to 15 days. During one clinic visit lasting up to six hours, blood samples will be collected every 15 minutes. Sensor readings will be compared with laboratory blood glucose measurements to assess accuracy. Participants will also be assessed for side effects, including skin reactions at the sensor sites, and will receive a safety follow-up after sensor removal. No procedures will be used to deliberately raise or lower blood glucose levels.
Effects Of Core Canister Training in Pregnant Women With History of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
This randomized control trial aims to determine the effects of structured Core Canister Training on muscular thickness, lumbopelvic stability and pelvic floor function in pregnant women diagnosed with GDM
Find Gestational Diabetes trials matched specifically to you
Answer 3 quick questions and we'll show you trials that fit your situation.