Influence of telephone advice on the results of glycemic self-monitoring in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is characterized by a chronic and progressive disease that alters the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and electrolytes. It implies in the failure of the secretion and / or action of insulin which leads to a hyperglycemic state. All these processes might affect maternal and fetal well-being. Hyperglycemia triggers changes in maternal fetal homeostasis leading, for example, to large for gestational age (LGA) fetuses, macrosomia, increased rates of cesarean section, birth trauma, shoulder dystocia, as well as hypoglycemia, hyperbilirubinemia, hypocalcemia, fetal polycythemia, neonatal respiratory disorders and intrauterine fetal death, representing risk for the mother and her child. Treatment of the disease consists of nutritional guidance, physical activity and self-monitoring of blood glucose. Since this is a transient disease, frequently unexpected by patients, treatment adhesion and comprehension are difficult. Considering the relevance of the subject, the purpose of this study is to analyze the effectiveness of telephone advice made by health professionals on the results of self monitoring blood glucose in pregnant women with gestational diabetes. We will study 206 patients form the Division of Endocrine Diseases of Pregnancy, Obstetrics Department of Hospital das Clínicas, University of Sao Paulo - Brazil. The results of the study can be used to improve patient´s glycemic self-monitoring, leading to better results on the treatment. (AU)