Gestational diabetes in Basrah, Iraq: knowledge, beliefs and barriers to awareness among pregnant women

Background/Aims Gestational diabetes mellitus is a common metabolic disorder of pregnancy with significant implications for maternal and neonatal health. It increases the risk of complications such as macrosomia, pre-eclampsia and diabetes after birth. This study aimed to assess knowledge, beliefs, preferred sources of information and barriers to awareness among healthy pregnant women in southern Iraq. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted with 540 pregnant women across 10 health sectors in Basrah. Data were collected through interviews and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics and stepwise regression analysis. Results Women's mean scores demonstrated moderate knowledge (57.6 ± 23.6). Urban residence ( P =0.003), higher education ( P =0.001), higher income ( P <0.001), multiparity ( P =0.020) and older age ( P <0.001) significantly predicted higher knowledge scores. Family and friends (31.7%) and the internet (31.1%) were the most common sources of information and low knowledge was the most commonly reported barrier (40.0%). Conclusions Urban residence, education and higher income were associated with better knowledge. Targeted education could enhance awareness of gestational diabetes among women in southern Iraq. Implication for practice Empowering healthcare professionals with the tools and time to educate women and implement broader public awareness initiatives is essential to improving knowledge and maternal and child health outcomes.