# The impact of maternal depression during pregnancy on the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus: a meta-analysis

## TL;DR

This study finds that depression during pregnancy increases the risk of gestational diabetes, suggesting early screening could help improve maternal health.

## Contribution

A meta-analysis showing a significant association between antenatal depression and gestational diabetes mellitus.

## Key findings

- Maternal depression during pregnancy is linked to a 37% increased risk of gestational diabetes mellitus.
- Subgroup and sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the association.
- No significant publication bias was detected in the study.

## Abstract

Antenatal depression, defined as clinically significant depressive symptoms occurring during pregnancy, has been suggested to increase the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), a glucose intolerance disorder with onset or first recognition during pregnancy. However, evidence regarding its relationship with GDM remains inconsistent. This meta-analysis aimed to quantitatively assess the association between antenatal depression and the risk of GDM.

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Wanfang, and the Cochrane Library from inception to June 12, 2025, for observational studies reporting the association between depression during pregnancy and GDM. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random-effects model.

A total of eight studies were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled analysis showed that maternal depression during pregnancy was significantly associated with an increased risk of GDM (OR = 1.37, 95% CI: 1.20-1.54). Subgroup analyses based on country, depression assessment tool, and study design showed consistent results. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the stability of the results. No significant publication bias was detected.

This meta-analysis suggests that maternal depression during pregnancy is associated with a significantly increased risk of developing GDM. Screening for depression in early pregnancy may represent a potential strategy to reduce the risk of GDM and improve maternal health outcomes.