Women’s experiences of living with gestational diabetes

Abstract

Purpose: Gestational diabetes mellitus [GDM] is one of the fastest-growing forms of diabetes globally, with an increasing prevalence in countries such as Malta. While research has often focused on the diagnostic experience, comparatively less attention has been paid to how women make sense of living with GDM throughout pregnancy. Gaining insight into these experiences is vital for developing holistic, woman-centred maternity care. Aim and Objectives: This research aimed to explore women’s experiences of living with GDM during pregnancy. The study had the following objectives: to gain insight into women's experiences of being diagnosed with GDM, to explore their perspectives on the care received from healthcare professionals, to understand their experiences of self-managing the condition, to examine how GDM influenced their overall pregnancy experience and to explore how women construct meaning around their diagnosis. Methodology: This study adopted a qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis [IPA] was used to explore participants' lived experiences in depth. Eight women who met the inclusion criteria were purposively selected through intermediaries working within the antenatal clinic and an obstetric ward of a local public hospital. The interview guide was carefully designed to align with the study’s research focus. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using Smith et al.'s (2022) IPA framework. The Common-Sense Model of Self-Regulation (Leventhal et al., 2016) provided the theoretical framework for interpreting participants' cognitive and emotional processes. Results: Four Group Experiential Themes emerged. Weight of Discovery captured the emotional disruption and identity shift that accompanied the diagnosis. Pregnancy Under Pressure reflected the intensity of lifestyle changes and the loss of spontaneity in daily life. Beyond Blood Sugar explored the varying quality of interactions and support received from healthcare professionals. Owning the Journey revealed how women adapted over time, gradually building confidence and agency in managing their condition. The meaning that women ascribed to these experiences was deeply embedded within each theme, reflecting not only what they endured but how they interpreted and responded to their circumstances. Conclusion: GDM was experienced as both a medical and emotional challenge, affecting identity, relationships, and perceptions of pregnancy. This study offers novel insights into the emotional weight of diagnosis, even when participants had prior awareness of the condition, the psychological burden of treatment escalation, and the adaptive role of meaning-making. For some participants, GDM became a catalyst for lasting change. Main recommendations include strengthening midwifery education to address emotional and cultural aspects of GDM and fostering supportive care through culturally sensitive practice and peer support. Further research ought to explore the long-term impact of GDM and how postnatal care may support ongoing adjustment.