Plasma sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) level: A comparative study between patients with gestational diabetes mellitus and healthy pregnant women

Gestational diabetes mellitus is a key pregnancy problem worldwide. The aim of this study was to compare the level of globulin binding hormone sex (SHBG) between diabetic pregnant women and healthy pregnant women in Kerman. This descriptive cross-sectional study was performed on diabetic pregnant women where diabetes was confirmed by a 2 h blood glucose tolerance test using 50 g and 100 g glucose. After completion of demographic information and midwifery records blood samples were collected from the patients and the blood glucose levels were measured. Also, SHBG was measured and finally all collected data were analyzed using SPSS software. The serum levels of SHBG were significantly lower in diabetic pregnant women as compared to the control group. However, this level reduction of SHBG in diabetic pregnant women was not significantly associated with other underlying factors and midwifery factors. Therefore, it is suggested that the serum SHBG levels can be used as an early factor in diagnosing the gestational diabetes.