Assessment of Knowledge Regarding Self-care Management of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus among Antenatal Mothers

Introduction:Pregnancy is a special stage in which the mother experiences major physical and emotional changes.It is associated with profound changes in fat and carbohydrate metabolism.Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a pregnancy-related disorder identified by elevated blood glucose levels.It is commonly associated with complications affecting both the mother and the newborn and generally resolves following delivery.It is recognized as a significant global cause of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality.Maternal and neonatal health can be improved through self-care management.Self-care management can help the antenatal mothers avoid maternal and fetal complications, which can help in early recovery.Objectives: To assess the level of knowledge regarding self-care management of GDM among antenatal mothers.Materials and methods: This research was conducted using a quantitative methodology with a descriptive, nonexperimental design.The sample comprised 40 registered antenatal mothers, both primi and multigravida, who met the eligibility criteria at Sir Ivan Stedeford Hospital, Chennai.A nonprobability purposive sampling method was adopted for the study.Data were collected using a structured, self-administered knowledge questionnaire.Results: The findings indicated that 15% of the antenatal mothers demonstrated an adequate level of knowledge, 57.5% had a moderately adequate level, and 27.5% exhibited an inadequate level of knowledge.The Chi-square analysis revealed a statistically significant association between knowledge scores and selected demographic variables, including educational status, area of residence, gravida status, and family history of diabetes. Conclusion:The study concluded that a majority of antenatal mothers possessed insufficient knowledge regarding self-care management of GDM.Therefore, the findings emphasize the need for enhanced educational interventions to improve knowledge levels and to promote safe motherhood and healthy childbirth outcomes.