Gestational diabetes mellitus: A survey of obstetricians in Berlin regarding diagnostic strategies and treatment

Objective: The diagnosis and treatment of gestational diabetes mellitus is controversial. We undertook a survey of obstetrician/gynecologists in Berli n regarding their practice regarding diagnosis and treatment. Methods: A questionnaire containing items on the diagnosis and treatment of gestational diabetes was sent to 441 practicing obstetrician/gynecologists in Berlin, a formerly divided city with different healthcare systems. Results: The response rate was 35%. Of the respondents, 92% believed that a standard oral glucose tolerance test should be integrated into the standar d German prenatal care plan and 36% screened their patients. Conclusion: The survey confirms disparate policies regarding the screening for and treatment of gestational diabetes. There are considerable differenc es between eastern and western Berlin. The results underline the need for m ore information and consistent guidelines for gestational diabetes and sugg est that the condition is now underdiagnosed and undertreated.