Perception of healthy lifestyle information in women with gestational diabetes: A pilot study before and after delivery

Background: Pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) need information about the increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in later life. Aims: To investigate how women with GDM perceived information about this condition during pregnancy; to explore their opinions on healthcare provision up to one year after delivery; to investigate their perceptions about lifestyle a year after delivery. Methods: Ten women were interviewed using a semi-structured guide. Data were analysed using content analysis. Questions included reactions to receiving the diagnosis and perceptions about information given during pregnancy and current health. Results: Six of the women perceived that information given had been too sparse; the remaining four considered it useful to learn about the risk of developing T2DM in later life. Written information about GDM was considered very brief or non-existent. Care received after delivery was perceived to be positive. Group meetings arranged up to one year after childbirth were appreciated by all attendees. At these meetings, recommendations were given regarding food and physical exercise, but no follow-up was arranged to encourage more permanent lifestyle changes. Conclusion: Opportunities for women with GDM to meet others with the condition and receive specialist support need to be maximised, so that these women can become more knowledgeable and be encouraged to change their lifestyle. This may help prevent or delay the onset of T2DM.