Preconception care in diabetic women

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Diabetes is increasingly becoming prevalent worldwide. Pregnancy with diabetes is prone to maternal and fetal complications. Preconception care (PCC) is an important factor in alleviating gestational complications in those women who suffer from diabetes. This study seeks to gain insight into experiences of diabetic women and providers about PCC. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The present research was a qualitative research conducted on eight women with diabetes during the reproductive age and 15 health care providers of the public and private medical centers, which provide health care for women with diabetes in Isfahan (Iran), with a qualitative approach. Based on the aims of research, purposive sampling was done through semi-structuralized individual interview. Data were analyzed using conventional qualitative content analysis method. RESULTS: Data analysis revealed three major categories: (1) Health centers weakness in providing PCC for diabetic women, (2) lack of a comprehensive PCC plan for diabetic women and (3) diabetic women's negligence about having planned pregnancy. CONCLUSION: In order to improve diabetic women's health, precise training of students, health care providers and patients themselves with respect to PCCs should be taken into account. Designing diabetic PCC system is an essential factor to succeed in this trend.