On December 8, 2025, the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at Tishk International University hosted an educational seminar focusing on critical aspects of maternal and infant healthcare. The academic event was organized by Dr. Pary Ameer, Head of the Nutrition and Dietetics Department, alongside Ms. Amani Tahsin, Assistant Lecturer. To provide professional clinical insights, the department welcomed expert Obstetrician-Gynecologist Dr. Nyan Sarteep as the keynote presenter, who delivered an essential overview of lactation dynamics and gestational diabetes management.

Understanding Gestational Diabetes and Its Real-World Impact

The first major segment of the seminar focused on Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM), a condition that affects roughly 14% of pregnancies worldwide. Dr. Nyan Sarteep explained the underlying causes of GDM, detailing how placental hormones create natural insulin resistance during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. The lecture highlighted the critical complications this condition can pose for both mothers and newborns, emphasizing why routine testing between 24 and 28 weeks is so vital. Attendees gained a clear understanding of the risks involved, as well as the important role that lifestyle modifications, blood sugar monitoring, and medical nutrition play in keeping both mother and baby safe.

The Science of Lactation and Postpartum Guidance

The second half of the seminar transitioned into the physiology, stages, and benefits of lactation, stressing its profound impact on long term family wellness. Dr. Nyan mapped out the biological process of milk production, outlining the unique nutritional demands a mother faces after giving birth. The session offered practical counseling advice for future nutritionists and dietitians, including the proper dietary requirements for breastfeeding mothers, foods and drinks to safely avoid, and ways to address common postpartum concerns. The event concluded successfully with an engaging discussion, leaving the university audience with comprehensive knowledge to better support maternal nutrition in the community.

Keywords: Gestational Diabetes, Lactation, Maternal Health, Public Health, Seminar, TIU.