894GESTATIONAL DIABETES MELLITUS AND ADVERSE PERINATAL OUTCOMES: THE IMPORTANCE OF EARLY INTERVENTION AND CONTINUOUS MONITORINGGestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a form of glucose intolerance first recognized during pregnancy and is associated with significant risks for both mothers and neonates. This hospital-based, cross-sectional observational study was conducted at the Sri Lakshmi Narayana Institute of Medical Sciences in Pondicherry, India, to evaluate perinatal outcomes in women diagnosed with GDM. The study included 150 pregnant women diagnosed with GDM, primarily older than 25 years and multiparous. Comprehensive clinical assessments, including blood tests, ultrasonography, and non-stress tests, were performed to monitor maternal and fetal well-being. The study's findings highlighted significant perinatal risks, including neonatal hypoglycemia (23.33%), hyperbilirubinemia (26.67%), and respiratory distress syndrome (8%). Macrosomia was observed in 11.33% of the neonates, and 23.33% required NICU admission. The results emphasize the importance of early diagnosis, continuous monitoring, and timely interventions to mitigate adverse outcomes. The study also underscores the need for targeted screening and management strategies, particularly for women with a history of GDM and other risk factors. Ongoing postpartum monitoring is crucial to reduce the long-term risk of type 2 diabetes in women who have experienced GDM. By addressing GDM comprehensively during and after pregnancy, healthcare providers can significantly improve maternal and neonatal health outcomesdrpebyreddy@gmail.comResearch842017Gestational diabetes mellitus, perinatal outcomes, Macrosomia, Neonatal hypoglycemia,GDM management, Maternal health, Postpartum follow-up.Vidyavathi C,Kiran Kumar EAssistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sri Lakshmi Narayana Institute of Medical Sciences, Pondichery, India,Assistant Professor of General Medicine, Sri Lakshmi Narayana Institute of Medical Sciences, Pondichery, India.