Predictors of gestational diabetes mellitus among first-trimester pregnant women: Evidence from a health center in West Java, Indonesia

Noviyanti (Midwifery Study Program, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, Universitas Jenderal Achmad Yani, Cimahi)
Dede Waslia (Midwifery Study Program, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, Universitas Jenderal Achmad Yani, Cimahi)
Intan Nafisah (Midwifery Study Program, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, Universitas Jenderal Achmad Yani, Cimahi)

Majalah Obstetri dan Ginekologi
Vol. 34 No. 2 (2026): August

HIGHLIGHTS This study identifies body mass index (BMI) and family history of diabetes as significant determinants of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) among first-trimester pregnant women. The findings emphasize the need for early screening and preventive interventions in primary health care to reduce GDM risk and its associated complications.   ABSTRACT Objective: Many first-trimester pregnant women at a health center in West Java, Indonesia, have been reported to exhibit elevated blood glucose levels and excessive BMI, while documentation of family history of diabetes remains inadequate. Local studies examining the relationship between these factors and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are still limited. This study aimed to determine the association between maternal age, BMI, and family history of diabetes and the incidence of GDM in first-trimester pregnant women. Materials and Methods: This case–control study involved 96 first-trimester pregnant women attending antenatal care at the Health Center with Inpatient Care in Cikalong Wetan, Bandung, Indonesia, in 2024, who were selected through purposive sampling. Participants were divided into cases (n = 48), defined by glucose levels =140 mg/dL, and controls (n = 48) with glucose levels <140 mg/dL and no clinical signs of GDM. Maternal age, BMI, and family history of diabetes mellitus were obtained from medical records and interviews. BMI was calculated from anthropometric measurements at the first antenatal visit, and blood glucose levels were assessed in the first trimester using the enzymatic glucose oxidase method. Data were analyzed descriptively using chi-square and binary logistic regression tests. Results: BMI and family history of diabetes mellitus were significantly associated with the incidence of GDM (p = 0.0001 for both variables). Maternal age was not significantly associated with GDM (p = 0.60). Logistic regression analysis identified BMI and family history as the dominant factors related to GDM risk. Conclusion: Family history and BMI were significantly associated with the risk of GDM. Preventive interventions should focus on pregnant women with high BMI and a family history of DM.