Current evidence of gestational diabetes mellitus: systematic review

Abstract

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common and multifactorial complication of pregnancy, associated with short- and long-term risks for maternal and fetal health. The aim of the present study was to identify studies addressing GDM using the PRISMA 2020 methodology to consolidate the most recent scientific evidence in the period 2022-2025. A systematic search was conducted in the PubMed database using a strategy that combined MeSH terms and keywords, applying filters to include only human studies published in English and Spanish; the process was documented using a PRISMA 2020 diagram, identifying 7,586 initial records, from which those meeting predetermined criteria were selected. The results showed that GDM is associated with alterations in glucose tolerance, inflammatory processes, and changes in placental function, as well as demonstrating the positive impact of interventions such as nutritional treatment, inositol supplementation, and physical activity, and the relevance of self-management and self-efficacy in clinical management. In conclusion, the systematic review consolidates a current framework of evidence supporting early detection and integrated management of GDM, laying the foundation for future research that optimizes preventive and therapeutic strategies in the maternal-fetal field.