Managing labor and delivery of the diabetic mother

Diabetes mellitus during pregnancy is classified as Type 1, Type 2 and gestational. The incidence of diabetes during pregnancy is increasing worldwide. Complications during pregnancy diverge according to the classification of diabetes and its severity. The fact that the definition can include various patient populations could clarify some of the variations in pregnancy outcomes. This review details the data that have been accumulated regarding the management of labor and delivery of diabetic mothers. One of the most common complications of gestational diabetes is macrosomia, which is related to shoulder dystocia and brachial plexus injury during delivery. We review the data regarding fetal weight estimation and its relevance to the decision-making process. It is important to tailor the management of labor and delivery in the diabetic patient according to fetal weight estimation, gestational age, maternal glycemic control and other maternal and fetal complications in order to achieve the most desirable results for both the mother and her offspring.