Diabetes in pregnancy : mothers' knowledge of self-care

Abstract

This study aims to explore expectant diabetic mothers' knowledge of self-care. The objectives of this study were to define knowledge of self-care initiatives in pregnant diabetic women, to explore the support given by the midwife in the provision of self-care, and to explore commitment and involvement of diabetic mothers in self-care. To fulfil the study's aim, a convenience sample of 21 women who were suffering from diabetes in pregnancy, was identified and the women consented to take part in this study. Nineteen of these mothers (90.5% response rate) completed the questionnaire devised for the purpose of this study. Data was manually analysed using descriptive statistics and content analysis. Overall, pregnant women suffering from diabetes in pregnancy were knowledgeable regarding most self-care aspects but were often unsuccessful in implementing this knowledge in their care. The aspects of care which participants were most knowledgeable in included diet and self-blood glucose monitoring; however the majority of participants did not always follow a healthy diabetic diet. Moreover, most participants were not sufficiently engaged in physical activity. Awareness of the symptoms of hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia was high and participants were also knowledgeable of treatment strategies to alleviate hypoglycaemia. However, knowledge regarding the treatment of hyperglycaemia was not optimal. Results of this study emphasize the role of the midwife in the preconception and antenatal period, with regards to self-management of diabetes in pregnancy. These findings form the basis of the recommendations for practice, research and education proposed in this study.