Exploring pregnant women’s experiences of a digital self-care intervention for gestational diabetes mellitus in Vietnam: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND: Pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) face complex challenges in managing their condition, especially in low-resource settings with limited healthcare and social support. Digital health interventions show promise, but their real-world applicability in rural contexts remains underexplored. OBJECTIVE: This study explores the experiences of women using an online intervention for GDM self-care in Thai Binh, Vietnam. METHODS: A qualitative study was conducted between February and December 2024 involving 21 pregnant women diagnosed with GDM. Participants were enrolled in a digital self-care program and interviewed in-depth during late pregnancy (29-39 weeks of gestation). The study drew on ethnographic methods, including attention to women's contexts and the use of fieldnotes. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and thematically analyzed. RESULTS: Participants reported improved self-management of GDM through healthier diets, increased physical activity, and regular glucose monitoring. Five main themes emerged: (1) making healthy food choices with family and peer support, (2) learning and practicing blood glucose self-monitoring with guidance, (3) engagement in physical activity encouraged by others, (4) emotional well-being supported by social relationships, and (5) challenges affecting women's acceptance of the online intervention. Professional support enhanced trust in medical advice, while the peer-support component fostered motivation, companionship, and emotional resilience. The intervention also encouraged family involvement in care. CONCLUSIONS: Online interventions that combine expert guidance with peer and family support can support women to manage the physical and mental aspects of living with GDM. This hybrid model shows promise for broader application in low- and middle-income countries. Further research is recommended to assess long-term impacts and scalability. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT05744856 (Registration Date 20230215 and Last Update Posted 20240430).