Lived experience of blood glucose self-monitoring among pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus: a phenomenological research

Abstract

Aims and objectives: To explore and describe lived experience of blood glucose self-monitoring among pregnant Thai women with gestational diabetes mellitus.

Background: Self-monitoring of blood glucose is an essential practice among pregnant women with diabetes to prevent complications in pregnancy and the newborn infant.

Design: Phenomenological research was employed to understand lived experiences in glycemic control.

Methods: Thirty participants were approached and interviewed using a semistructured interview guides. Qualitative data were analysed following Colaizzi's method.

Results: The findings revealed three themes: being worried about diabetes and blood testing, trying to control it and being patient for the child. Their worry comprised three dimensions: (1) wondering about the impacts of diabetes on the child, (2) concern about maternal health and (3) being worried about doing blood test. Trying to control diabetes was composed of three dimensions: (1) learning to test blood glucose, (2) being afraid of elevated blood sugar and (3) being aware of what to eat. Being patient for the child was composed of three dimensions: (1) overcoming food desires, (2) tolerating the fingerprick pain and (3) satisfaction with the outcomes.

Conclusions: Women with gestational diabetes experienced being worried and afraid regarding blood glucose self-monitoring; however, they could overcome and tolerate this with some difficulties.

Relevance to clinical practice: These findings can be used to guide nursing practice in assessment of perception and response towards blood glucose self-monitoring in order to improve achievement of a good glycaemic control among pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus.

Keywords: blood glucose self-monitoring; gestational diabetes mellitus; pregnant Thai women.