Assessing Knowledge and Awareness of Preconception Care Among Women with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: Implications for Optimizing Maternal and Fetal Health Outcomes

Aim: Diabetes mellitus raises risks for the mother, fetus, and infant. Preconception care plays a vital role in reducing the likelihood of miscarriage, congenital anomalies, and perinatal mortality. A higher level of knowledge before pregnancy is associated with better glycemic control and reduced diabetes-related risks. This study aimed to assess the pre-pregnancy knowledge of women of reproductive age with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and to inform strategies for improved pregnancy planning and care in this high-risk group. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional, single-center study included women with T1DM aged 18–45 years attending an endocrinology outpatient clinic. Participants completed a structured questionnaire designed to evaluate their knowledge of preconception care. Results: A total of 117 women with T1DM participated in the study. The mean knowledge score was 58.6%. Participants who had received preconception care education scored significantly higher than those who had not (69.98% vs. 47.13%, p