Does Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Provide a 'Teachable Moment?'
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Does Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Provide a 'Teachable Moment'?
IRAS ID
150573
Contact name
A Collier
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Stirling
Research summary
Recent figures indicate that the rate of gestational diabetes mellitus (diabetes during pregnancy) is increasing. Failure to follow medical recommendations during pregnancy can lead to an increased risk for both mother and foetus.
Several research groups have suggested that the experience of being diagnosed with gestational diabetes can influence how women choose to engage with lifestyle and medical advice during pregnancy. Clarifying the process by which factors surrounding diagnosis relate to subsequent health related behaviour during pregnancy would be valuable to the development of future interventions and support for women with gestational diabetes. The health psychology model of ‘teachable moments’ may provide a useful perspective on the psychological processeses involved in diagnosis of gestational diabetes. According to this model, if an event such as diagnosis leads to increased emotional arousal, an increase in perceived threat and a change in self concept then individuals are likely to engage in positive behaviour change. To date, no study has applied the model of ‘teachable moments’ to the diagnosis of gestational diabetes.
This study will involve 80 pregnant women with first time diagnosis of gestational diabetes. Participants will complete a questionnaire during scheduled appointments at the gestational diabetes group start for Dietetic education at University Hospital Crosshouse. The questionnaire will consist of questions about level of emotional arousal, perceived threat, self concept, behaviour change intentions and self efficacy. Follow up data will be collected via telephone one month later, women will be asked about the extent to which they have been adhering to medical advice; specifically, dietary advice, blood glucose monitoring and medication (if applicable).REC name
North East - York Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/NE/0099
Date of REC Opinion
26 Mar 2014
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion