At 28 weeks gestation, a 32-year-old pregnant woman was diagnosed with high blood sugar, but she did not seek treatment. Despite experiencing symptoms such as increased thirst and frequent urination, the woman did not perceive these as dangerous indicators. Subsequent prenatal check-ups revealed that the fetus was large and that the woman had polyhydramnios.
When the expectant mother went to the doctor at 40 weeks and found out about the slow fetal heart rate, she was immediately transferred to Bach Mai Hospital where the fetal heart was ultimately lost. The medical professionals had no choice but to perform a cesarean section. Dr. Nguyen Quang Bay, the Head of the Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes at Bach Mai Hospital, emphasized that the patient overlooked many risk factors and signs of diabetes, such as a family history of type 2 diabetes, previously giving birth to a large baby, and high blood sugar levels combined with symptoms of diabetes.
It is crucial that pregnant women with risk factors like advanced maternal age, a history of large babies, family members with diabetes, or being overweight or obese undergo screening for gestational diabetes in the early stages of pregnancy. Regular monitoring and timely treatment of gestational diabetes are essential to prevent adverse outcomes for both the mother and the baby.
The tragic outcome experienced by this woman serves as a reminder that pregnant women must be aware of their health risks and take appropriate action when necessary. It is important for healthcare providers to educate patients about these risks and provide them with resources to manage their health during pregnancy.
This case highlights how easy it can be for pregnant women to overlook warning signs related to gestational diabetes or other health conditions. As such, healthcare providers must work closely with patients to monitor their health throughout pregnancy and ensure that they receive appropriate care when necessary.
In conclusion, this case underscores the importance of early detection and management of gestational diabetes in order to prevent adverse outcomes for both mothers and babies. Pregnant women should be aware of their health risks and seek prompt medical attention if they experience any concerning symptoms or warning signs during pregnancy.
