Understanding Gestational Diabetes, Future Diabetes Risk, and Diabetes Prevention: A Qualitative Study of Patient, Provider, and Staff Perspectives

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) increases type 2 diabetes risk; however, postpartum diabetes screening rates are low. Using semi-structured interviews and focus groups, this study investigates the understanding of GDM and its relationship to future diabetes risk and diabetes prevention among patients with public or no insurance (n = 36), health care providers (n = 21), and clinic staff (n = 9) from Federally Qualified Health Centers. Five main themes emerged: 1) general understanding of GDM diagnosis with focus on neonatal complications; 2) variable recall of diet, exercise, and weight recommendations; 3) overwhelming medication and self-monitoring routines; 4) short-term focus of type 2 diabetes risk and screening; and 5) limited understanding of all options for diabetes prevention. The results may inform diabetes screening and prevention interventions in primary care settings.