Patient-Reported Outcomes in Women with Gestational Diabetes: a Longitudinal Study

Background Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a common health problem among pregnant women and may be associated with distress. Purpose The purpose of the study was to describe changes in patient-reported outcomes in women with GDM and identify factors associated with increased distress in these patients. Research Design The study was conducted in 205 women diagnosed with GDM. Study participants underwent a physical examination and completed a questionnaire two times during pregnancy. On average, the questionnaire was completed at 27 weeks of gestation at baseline and 36 weeks at follow-up. The questionnaire included socio-demographic and clinical variables, standardized patient-reported outcome measures, and questions about the impact of GDM on daily life, satisfaction with care, knowledge about GDM, and social and professional support. Our main outcome of interest was diabetes-related distress, measured by the Problem Areas in Diabetes (PAID) questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multivariable regression models. Results At baseline, 80 % of the women were satisfied with their diabetes care and 58 % said they managed their diabetes well. The proportion reporting little or no knowledge of GDM dropped from almost 50 % at baseline to 14 % at follow-up. However, the proportion reporting that GDM affected their social life increased from 26 to 35 %, and the proportion reporting interference with family life increased from 14 to 26 %. Insulin treatment, frequency of blood glucose measurements, lack of knowledge about GDM, and lack of support from family and health care providers were strongly and significantly associated with distress. Conclusion In women with GDM, intensified treatment and lack of informational and social support are associated with distress. These aspects of GDM care appear to be appropriate targets for future research and interventions aimed at reducing the level of distress in these patients.