What is the purpose of maintaining euglycemia in labor for patients with gestational diabetes?

Maintaining euglycemia in labor for patients with gestational diabetes is crucial primarily to prevent neonatal hypoglycemia. When blood sugar levels are well-controlled during labor, the risk of the newborn experiencing low blood sugar levels after delivery decreases significantly. Neonatal hypoglycemia can occur when the infant is exposed to high levels of maternal glucose during pregnancy, leading to increased insulin production from the baby’s pancreas. After birth, if the maternal glucose supply is abruptly cut off, the newborn may not have adequate energy reserves, resulting in hypoglycemia. By ensuring that the mother's blood sugar is stable and within a normal range during labor, healthcare providers can reduce the likelihood of this condition, thereby promoting better outcomes for the infant.

While aspects such as maternal hypertension, appetite, and fatigue are important considerations during labor, they are not the primary focus when it comes to managing blood sugar levels in the context of gestational diabetes. The key concern is to maintain optimal glucose levels to safeguard the health of the newborn following delivery.