Adherence to gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) management plan among pregnant women in Oman: Predictors, barriers, and motivating factors

Marwa Al Nadhiri, Iman Al Hashmi*, Fawwaz Alaloul, Omar Al Omari

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Objectives: This study examined the predictors, the barriers, and the motivating factors of adherence to the gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) management plan among Arab pregnant women with GDM. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Antenatal Clinics of three major tertiary hospitals in Oman. Total of 164 Arab pregnant women with GDM were recruited using a convenience sampling technique. The measurement scales included Diabetes Self-Management Questionnaire- Revised, Diabetes Management Self-Efficacy Scales, and Social Support Survey. Multiple-choice questions were used to assess barriers to and motivators of adherence. The analytical tools included multiple linear regression and descriptive statistics. Results: Findings from stepwise regression analysis revealed three models with three significant predictors, including self-efficacy, previous history of GDM, and the type of GDM management. The major barriers to adherence were family, especially kids' responsibilities, time constraints, home responsibilities, and working status. Moreover, participants indicated their concern about maternal and neonatal GDM-related complications and husband encouragement as the main motivating factors for adherence. Conclusions: and Clinical Relevance: Our findings suggest that antenatal healthcare providers should implement strategies that enhance self-efficacy and engage families in health education programs. The study also recommends collaboration between health policy makers in the Ministries of Health, Consumer Protection Agency, and the Ministries of Municipality to ensure the availability of healthy food choices in the public areas. Additionally, flexible working conditions and an environment conducive to a healthy and active lifestyle should be made available to pregnant women with GDM.

Original languageEnglish
Article number102766
Pages (from-to)102766
JournalDiabetes and Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research and Reviews
Volume17
Issue number5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - May 1 2023

Keywords

  • Adherence
  • Factors
  • GDM
  • Healthy behaviours
  • Predictors
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Humans
  • Health Behavior
  • Pregnancy
  • Oman/epidemiology
  • Diabetes, Gestational/epidemiology
  • Pregnant Women
  • Female
  • Infant, Newborn

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Internal Medicine
  • Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism

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