Prevention of type 2 diabetes among women with prior gestational diabetes mellitus

The morbidity and mortality rates related to diabetes are constantly rising, as well as those for other noncommunicable diseases. The epidemic is spreading throughout the world, in both low- and high-resource countries. Prevention is a key aspect in the battle against the disease and obstetricians play a critical role in the fight. Prevention starts in utero—for the diabetic mother, her infant, and future generations. The postpartum period should not be neglected because it provides another window of opportunity to address prevention. Data on the prevention of type 2 diabetes among women diagnosed with gestational diabetes are discussed.