Prevalence of Medical Disorders During Pregnancy in India: A Comprehensive Observational Study to Assess the Prevalence of Hypertension, Diabetes, and Thyroid Disorders During Pregnancy in Indian Women.

Background Pregnancy is a critical period where maternal non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertensive disorders, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), and thyroid dysfunction significantly affect maternal and fetal outcomes. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of these conditions among pregnant women in India. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at a tertiary care hospital. The participants were enrolled irrespective of gestational age. Known cases of pre-existing hypertension, diabetes, and thyroid disorders were excluded. Data were collected via structured questionnaires and clinical records, capturing demographics, obstetric history, lifestyle, diagnostic values, and the awareness of risk factors. Conditions were diagnosed based on standardized criteria (Diabetes in Pregnancy Study Group India {DIPSI} for GDM, blood pressure {BP} of ≥140/90 mmHg for hypertension, and trimester-specific thyroid-stimulating hormone {TSH} levels for thyroid dysfunction). Results The prevalence of GDM, hypertension, and thyroid dysfunction was 60 (20%), 48 (16%), and 36 (12%), respectively. GDM and hypertension were significantly more common in urban participants (p<0.05), and both were associated with higher body mass index (BMI). Thyroid dysfunction was frequently diagnosed in the first trimester (22, 61.1%). A significant upward trend in all three disorders was observed with increasing BMI. The awareness of risk factors was higher among educated women, correlating with earlier diagnosis. Conclusion This study highlights a substantial burden of NCDs among pregnant women, especially GDM and hypertension. Urbanization, obesity, and maternal age were key contributing factors. While structured screening and early antenatal registration are existing mandates, our findings underscore the need for targeted and scalable interventions beyond current protocols.