Endocrine Abstracts

JOINT2028

Introduction: Gestational diabetes (GD) is a condition that can make pregnancy emotionally challenging and filled with concerns, requiring significant lifestyle adjustments to manage stress. The objective of our study was to identify the different fears experienced by pregnant women in order to find solutions for managing them.

Methods: This descriptive study was conducted on 53 women diagnosed with GD, followed up in our GD unit at Service C of the Tunis Institute of Nutrition. Data were collected through direct interviews.

Results: The average age of the patients was 33.79 ± 4.8 years. Regarding medical history, 7.5% had hypertension, 3.8% had dyslipidemia, and 7.5% had hypothyroidism. The prevalence of anemia during pregnancy was 24.5%. Most patients had normal blood pressure (BP), with an average systolic BP of 11.43 ± 1.08 cmHg and an average diastolic BP of 6.7 ± 0.91 cmHg. Similarly, their diabetes was generally well-controlled, with an average HbA1c of 5.55 ± 0.67%, although 24.5% required insulin therapy. Regarding pregnancy progression, 28.3% of women were in the first trimester (T1), 47.2% in the second (T2), and 24.5% in the third (T3). Insulin therapy raised several concerns: 54.7% of patients feared injections, 50.9% had unfounded concerns about insulin’s effects on the fetus, and 35.8% worried about hypoglycemia. Additionally, 58.5% of women found blood glucose monitoring through GAD to be restrictive. Fears related to GD complications were widespread: 77.4% of patients unjustifiably feared fetal malformations, 75.5% were concerned about the risk of diabetes in the newborn, and 71.7% worried about congenital infections. Furthermore, 30.2% were apprehensive about cesarean delivery, and 77.4% feared the persistence of diabetes in the postpartum period. However, no statistically significant association was found between pregnancy term and the various fears expressed by the patients (P = NS).

Conclusion: Our study highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to GD management, addressing not only the medical aspect but also providing psychological and educational support to patients. Identifying and addressing their fears, while correcting misconceptions, could enhance treatment adherence and promote an optimal pregnancy outcome. A more personalized and empathetic approach could help build patient confidence and contribute to better maternal-fetal care.