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Normal Saline Vs. Lactated Ringers in Gestational Diabetes

Pregnant women with gestational diabetes may require intravenous fluids at any point during their pregnancy; it is more likely when they are admitted to a hospital for labor or Cesarean section. The type of fluid is decided by the doctor in charge of the patient.

  1. Gestational Diabetes

    • Gestational diabetes can occur in any pregnant woman, but the risk increases for certain women due to obesity, age or genetics. It is identified when the blood glucose is high during the pregnancy and may or may not be treated with insulin, depending on the woman.

    Intravenous fluids

    • Intravenous (IV) fluids may be necessary during labor, Cesarean section or at any time during the pregnancy when hospital admission is required. IV fluids increase hydration and, if Lactated Ringers is used, maintain a regular balance of electrolytes in the body.

    Lactated Ringers Solution

    • Lactated Ringers Solution (LRS) is a sterile saline product that also contains sodium lactate, potassium chloride and calcium chloride. This is given via IV rather than straight saline (NaCl) when the electrolyte balance in the woman needs to be maintained. Additional potassium likely needs to be added to the fluids, as decided by the doctor.

    Saline

    • Saline (NaCl), when used intravenously, acts simply to rehydrate the system and does not act to maintain electrolyte balance directly. If potassium levels are a concern, it may be added to the bag of saline, as directed by the physician.

    IV Dextrose and Insulin

    • Depending on the patient and the severity of the gestational diabetes, the doctor may have dextrose added to the fluids if he is concerned about the blood glucose level dropping (such as during a Cesarean section). Also depending on the case, insulin may be administered if the blood glucose is too high.

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