Adolescent Latinas’ with Diabetes and Their Mothers’ Understanding of Diabetes and Reproductive Health: Converging Themes to Inform a Culturally Sensitive Preconception Counseling Program

Latinas are at an increased risk for diabetes and reproductive health (RH) complications with sexuality and pregnancy. This study explored the understanding of diabetes related to RH, pregnancy, unplanned pregnancies, preconceptioncounseling, tight-control, and family planning among Latina adolescents with diabetes and their mothers and explored converging themes. The qualitative descriptive study used written open-ended questions (English or Spanish) with Latina mothers (n = 13) and daughters (n = 21). Responses were transcribed. Content analysis was used by four researchers who coded and discussed themes and reached consensus. Converging themes were confirmed using Atlas.ti software. Seven themes emerged from the mother–daughter dyad: communication (awkwardness, ambivalence, styles); control (being controlled vs. controlling); consequences (fertility, complications); planning (pregnancy, being healthy, life plan, RH); support; danger, risk, and safety; and stigma. Many mother–daughter dyads were not ready to discuss RH among themselves. Cultural and familial perspectives should be considered when providing care and preconception counseling to this population.