Exploring the Bidirectional Connection between Gestational Diabetes and Depression in Pregnant Women

This comprehensive literature review investigated the reciprocal relationship between gestational diabetes (GD) and depression. 

The study examined GD in relation to a history of depression, depression during pregnancy, and postpartum depression. For this, PubMed and Scopus databases were systematically searched to identify relevant articles published after 2015. 

Overall, 22 were selected for review – comprising 18 cohorts, 2 case-control studies, 1 cross-sectional study, and 1 claims analysis. A meta-ethnography was conducted, revealing a bidirectional relationship between a history of depression, depression during pregnancy, postpartum depression, and GD. 

The findings suggested that GD diagnosis may heighten the risk of depression during pregnancy and postpartum period, while a history of depression or depressive symptoms during pregnancy may increase the likelihood of GD.

Moreover, both prenatal and postpartum may increase the risk for GD development. These findings underscore the bidirectional nature of the relationship between GD and depression. Gaining a better understanding of the GD-depression relationship and establishing the causal connections are crucial for effective prevention strategies targeting both conditions.

Source: Fischer S, Morales-Suárez-Varela M. The Bidirectional Relationship between Gestational Diabetes and Depression in Pregnant Women: A Systematic Search and Review. InHealthcare. 2023 Jan 31 (Vol. 11, No. 3, p. 404). MDPI.