Prevalence and associated factors of gestational diabetes mellitus among women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis - Report - MDSpire

Prevalence and associated factors of gestational diabetes mellitus among women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis

  • By

  • Youchang Yuan

  • Liuxin Hu

  • Yanjing Li

  • Xinju Hou

  • July 17, 2026

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Clinical Report: Assessment of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Prevalence in PCOS

Overview

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), finding a pooled prevalence of 24%. Key associated factors included pre-pregnancy BMI, gestational weight gain, HOMA-IR, and family history of diabetes.

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in reproductive-aged women, with a prevalence of approximately 8% to 13%. Women with PCOS are at an increased risk for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), which can lead to adverse outcomes for both mother and child.

Data Highlights

MeasureValue
Pooled GDM Prevalence24% (95% CI: 20%-28%)
Prevalence by Diagnostic Criteria (One-step)26.0%
Prevalence by Diagnostic Criteria (Two-step)18.7%
Pre-pregnancy BMI Odds Ratio1.39
Gestational Weight Gain Odds Ratio1.58
HOMA-IR Odds Ratio3.41
Family History of Diabetes Odds Ratio2.88

Key Findings

  • Pooled GDM prevalence in PCOS is 24% with significant heterogeneity (I² = 89.9%).
  • Primary prevalence estimate from cohort studies is 21.7% (95% CI: 17.7%-25.8%).
  • GDM prevalence is higher with one-step diagnostic criteria (26.0%) compared to two-step (18.7%).
  • Pre-pregnancy BMI, gestational weight gain, HOMA-IR, and family history of diabetes are significantly associated with GDM risk.
  • Substantial variability in GDM prevalence suggests differing risk profiles across populations.

Clinical Implications

Women with PCOS should be considered a high-risk group for gestational diabetes mellitus, necessitating early monitoring of glucose metabolism and weight management. Identifying and addressing associated factors can aid in the development of targeted interventions.

Conclusion

The findings highlight the need for increased awareness and proactive management of gestational diabetes in women with PCOS, given the significant prevalence and associated risk factors identified.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Frontiers in Endocrinology, 2026 -- Prevalence and associated factors of gestational diabetes mellitus among women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis
  2. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2026 -- Link Between Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Pregnancy Outcomes in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: Insights from a Secondary Analysis of the DiGest Study
  3. Frontiers in Endocrinology, 2026 -- Serum vitamin D levels in non-obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis
  4. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2026 -- Association Between Body Mass Index and Gestational Diabetes Risk in Women with PCOS: Insights from the Japan Environment and Children's Study
  5. American Diabetes Association, 2026 -- Diagnosis and Classification of Diabetes: Standards of Care in Diabetes
  6. Frontiers in Medicine — Investigation of trends, hot spots and effective therapies for pregnancy outcomes in polycystic ovary syndrome: a bibliometric analysis
  7. 2. Diagnosis and Classification of Diabetes: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026 | Diabetes Care | American Diabetes Association
  8. Frontiers | Prevalence and associated factors of gestational diabetes mellitus among women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis

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