Improving outcomes by effective communication with would-be mothers with gestational diabetes at tertiary care center

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by carbohydrate intolerance detected for the first-time during pregnancy. It may result in various complications in both the mother and child. The purpose of this study was to assess their knowledge about diabetes, doubts about safe pregnancy and misconceptions regarding treatment. It helped us in creating awareness amongst patients, their caregivers and of fellow doctors involved in patient care. Methods: Each patient was started on a treatment protocol and compliance of medical nutrition therapy (MNT) in patients and calorie requirement were recorded. They were counselled regarding the care they need to execute and provided sample diet chart modified according to their needs, as per the guidelines laid down by ministry of health and family welfare, government of India 2018. Results: Majority of the GDM women were obese (65%). Majority of the patients had calorie requirement of 2080 (37.50%) followed by 1750 (25%) and 2580 (22.50%). The compliance of MNT in present study was 68.33%. Conclusions: Patients were unaware about diabetes, had fear for their unborn child, of a safe pregnancy and delivery. Patients were educated about gestational diabetes, its consequences, and how we can together prevent them. The guidelines for gestational diabetes care and assessment during ANC checkup has to be inculcated at grass root level. Patients, their care takers, nursing staff, doctors have to be involved as a team in providing care and implementing these guidelines.