Management of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: Self-efficacy and Perinatal Outcomes

Abstract

© The Journal of Current Pediatrics, published by Galenos Publishing. The purpose of this review is to give knowledge about effects on perinatal outcomes of self-efficacy in management of gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a significant health concern due to the potentially adverse outcomes for the mother and the fetus/infant. Close monitoring and treatment of GDM are important to the long-term health of a pregnant woman and her baby. Moreover, maternal metabolic control during pregnancy may positively impact women’s risk of later onset of type II diabetes and the risk of obesity and type II diabetes in their children. There are few studies which focus on self efficacy and adoption of health behaviors in women with GDM; however, there is strong evidence demonstrating that health promotion behavior such as weight loss, exercise, healthy diet and self-monitoring blood glucose concentrations will decrease the risk of developing diabetes mellitus (DM). In addition, lifestyle modifications (e.g. weight loss, healthy diet, and exercise), compliance with physician appointments, and postpartum glucose screening are essential for early diagnosis and prevention of DM in women with GDM.