Mental healthcare and peer support may improve the experience of diabetes self-management during pregnancy

Abstract

Implications for practice and research► Policies are required to support self-management of diabetes during labour and delivery in practice. ► Future research should focus on developing and implementing interventions to support self-management of diabetes during labour and delivery. ContextSushko et al 1 highlight the increasing prevalence of pre-existing diabetes in pregnancy, which represents a risk to maternal and child health. Diabetes in pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of adverse perinatal and postnatal outcomes for pregnant people and infants. Thus, maintaining optimal glycaemic control during preconception and pregnancy is associated with a lower risk of complications. Many interventions and activities aim to improve glycaemic control in pregnancy, which are usually advised by healthcare professionals. However, most self-management occurs in between appointments at home. In addition, the prevalence of mental health disorders is higher among people with diabetes. The stressors encountered during pregnancy may increase the risk of poor mental health or mental ill health impacting one's ability to self-manage.